Studying abroad in Barcelona was one of the most challenging and transformative experiences of my life. Living across the world pushed me far outside of my comfort zone—I often felt homesick and disconnected from the familiarity of home. But in navigating that discomfort, I learned how to rely on myself in new ways. I explored a different culture with open-mindedness, learned to move through unfamiliar spaces with confidence, and gained a deeper understanding of who I am outside of the environments that shaped me. From balancing coursework in a new academic system to simply finding joy in getting lost in the city’s winding streets, Barcelona taught me resilience, adaptability, and the beauty of self-discovery. It was a season of growth that shaped not only how I view the world, but how I show up in it.