Carlow student Sean selected as Rose of Tralee escort

Sean O’Driscoll (21) from Graiguecullen has been selected as one of 32 escorts for the prestigious Rose of Tralee festival in August. Sean is studying government and political science at University College Cork and is sponsored by Slimming World with Mary. The youngest member of this year’s escort group, Sean brings unique experience from his recent work placement as a legislative assistant in the New York State Senate.

“I’m buzzing now, I can’t wait,” Sean said enthusiastically about his selection. “I got to meet all the lads in a bootcamp in Kerry recently. They’re all great, so I’m looking forward to seeing them again now in August. It’s going to be unreal.” 

Sean discovered the opportunity through social media and navigated a comprehensive application process that evaluated both his background and personality. The selection process included detailed questions about his experiences, current activities and personal interests, including favourite movies and books.

“I’d seen the ad first on Instagram and filled out an application on the website,” Sean explained. “It was lots of questions like, who you are, different experiences you’ve had, what you’re doing now. It’s also a bit of personality ‒ favourite movie, favourite books. I think what they’re really trying to do is see what kind of person you are.” 

The application process continued with both solo and group interviews, where Sean’s personality and trustworthiness were assessed, alongside other candidates. His experience in New York proved particularly valuable during the selection process.

“In a way, I was escorting my senator around; any meetings he had, I briefed him on; whenever he was going to debate a bill during session, I would help him with that – lots of different jobs,” Sean said of his legislative assistant role.

“It was quite a wide variety. It was long hours as well. You were in early, you were in until very late as well. So I drew on that when applying to be an escort. I said, look, I’ve done a similar role in New York and I’d love to take it back to Ireland.” 

As a Rose escort, Sean’s responsibilities will focus on supporting and assisting his assigned Rose throughout the week-long festival. This includes helping with logistics, ensuring she’s prepared for television appearances and providing general support during formal events.

“It’s quite a varying role from what I understand. It really depends on the Rose you’re assigned to and what she needs from you,” Sean noted. “So if she needs just a relaxing person sitting beside her before she goes on TV or just making sure that she knows exactly where she needs to be. It’s more about being on the ball, knowing what your Rose needs and wants.” 

While Sean doesn’t yet know which Rose he’ll be paired with, there’s excitement in Carlow that it could be local representative Katie Ryan from Tullow, who will represent the county in this year’s competition.