Growing up and growing independent through the experience abroad.
Adolescence is already a period of change. Adding a new country, language, and culture on top of that amplifies everything.
But I think that's exactly why I grew so much. Being removed from my comfort zone forced me to develop independence faster than I would have at home.
I learned to solve problems on my own, to navigate unfamiliar systems, and to build relationships from scratch. Those skills stay with me.