Hopes to move to Italy to work in international relations
Sean Van Eynort

What A Levels did you study?

I studied Physics, Spanish, History and Maths, I also did Chemistry AS

If you went to university, where did you go and what did you study? If you didn’t go to university, what did you do instead?

I took a gap year after Lancing during which I travelled to China, Fiji and the Galapagos to do nature conservation projects. Following this I studied History and Archaeology at the University of Sheffield from 2018-2021 and then completed an Advanced MSc in International Relations and Diplomacy at Leiden University from 2021-2023. 

What are you doing now and what plans do you have for the future?

I am currently working as a strategy consultant with Novaspace in Brussels, having transitioned into the space sector following my MSc thesis on the role of status in International Relations, and how space is a key stage for status competition among today’s superpowers. My long-term goals are to return to the UK to pursue a career in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, or potentially a related branch of the civil service such as the Department of Business and Trade or the UK Space Agency.

What influence has Lancing College had on your life?

Lancing gave me the confidence and support I needed to overcome challenging personal circumstances and get into university to study what I most enjoyed, as well as opening my eyes to the value and importance of pursuing hobbies such as singing. After my BA, it was the Lancing, and Gibbs’, ethos of striving for our dreams and aims that pushed me to shift course and pursue a masters in IR and Diplomacy. Lancing also gave me a global network of friends that I was able to meet up with in Chengdu, Shanghai, Hong Kong, New York and beyond as well as many fond memories to look back on. Lancing has also been a constant touchpoint for me, with events such as carol concerts or the Young OLs drinks, being mainstays in my yearly calendar. 

What hobbies or interests did you pick up during your time at Lancing?

I started singing for the first time, I joined the swimming team and in my last year I was able to have riding lessons. I also learned how my varied interests in history, physics, and languages could all be pursued together despite their superficial differences. This varied set of passions has been a major part of what has allowed me to follow the path I have.

Are you still in touch with people you met at Lancing?

Yes, and I meet up with them as much as I can, be it by going back to the UK or convincing them to come and visit me wherever I may be. Many have become family friends I hope to keep for life. I also frequently return to the college and keep in touch with teachers and other staff who played such a big role in shaping my path in life.

What OL activities have you taken part in since you left (i.e. OL sports events, Business Networks etc.)?

I have attended the Young OLs reunion in London most years to see friends and acquaintances. I have also been back to a few Founders Day events and carol concerts.

What advice would you give to a new pupil who is about to start at Lancing?

Find something you've never tried before and try it! The options are incredible, and I found everyone to be really supportive even when I clearly had no clue what I was doing (which fore all of us is usually more often than we admit!). Don’t be afraid to experiment, you will rarely get such a good opportunity again.