Sean was born in Glasgow but grew up in the United Arab Emirates. He spent 17 years living in Abu Dhabi which he is extremely grateful for as it allowed him to grow up in an international setting and embrace many different cultures. After finishing school, he returned to Scotland to complete his undergraduate degree. An eye-opening conversation with his supervisor at the University of Stirling ultimately led to Sean applying for the MSc Clinical Exercise Science course at Edinburgh Napier which would go on to shape his professional career.
Having been dismissed as ‘just a B Grade student’ by one of his teachers at school, Sean would go on to graduate from Edinburgh Napier in 2019 with a distinction and won the university medal for his course. Sean was inspired to help people with chronic conditions, so he brought what he learnt at Edinburgh Napier to Nuffield Health Glasgow, Giffnock and was at the forefront of setting up ‘The Joint Pain Programme’. Through this initiative Sean was able to improve the quality of life of those that suffer from chronic joint pain and other chronic conditions.
Despite making the very difficult decision to leave Nuffield after more than 4 years, Sean wanted to challenge himself and enter a different industry. With helping people still at the forefront of Sean’s priorities, he moved back to Abu Dhabi after nearly a decade in Scotland and is currently training to be a fully qualified international financial advisor. Instead of helping with people’s physical health, Sean now looks to ensure as many people as possible are protected in the event of illness and are financially secure to be able to enjoy their life in retirement.
Sean appreciates how daunting it can be for people who have never moved country before. He has become an Alumni Champion to support those who are moving to the UAE or who already live here to meet new people and make new connections. If this sounds like you, Sean would love to hear from you!
“From my personal experience being at Edinburgh Napier, asking lots of questions, being curious and making an effort with the people who help and support you will really help you to do well. Be relentless, determined and work as hard as you possibly can. As difficult as it can be, prioritise your physical and mental health by doing exercise and hobbies that you enjoy – it’ll really help you to operate on as high a level as possible. It’s so cliché, but it’s the truth - if you put your mind to something and work as hard as you possibly can, you will achieve things you probably never thought you could. Be personable, get on with people and you’ll do well!”