Classmates recall princess's humility at university

Nearly three decades after Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha Narendiradebyavati began her studies at Thammasat University's Faculty of Law, classmates remember her humility and ease. She joined hundreds of fellow students in 1997, embarking on a journey that unfolded among them rather than apart.

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There was no sense of distance. She took part in activities like everyone else.

During her first year, freshmen participated in orientation activities like songs, games, and group exercises. The princess joined in naturally, dispelling any initial uncertainty about how to interact with a royal in an informal setting. Asst Prof Taweesak Euaamornwanich recalled that her participation was effortless, with "no sense of distance."

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Many students would glance towards Her Royal Highness, wondering how she would respond. But she never behaved as though special permission was required. She treated it as entirely normal, which helped lecturers feel more comfortable as well.

This ease extended into the classroom. Lecturers, initially nervous about using plain language due to royal vocabulary conventions, found their comfort increased by the princess's reaction. She treated the use of normal language as entirely normal, which helped ease the situation for faculty members. Assoc Prof Supreeya Kaewla-iad, now Dean of the Faculty of Law and a classmate, noted that the princess preferred spending time in classrooms and with friends over using a dedicated reception room.

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She used the room occasionally.