It was due to all four. For number 4. I can mention I am always genuinely curious, I always want to understand how a particular idea, bit of code, software, to

It was due to all four. For number 4. I can mention I am always genuinely curious, I always want to understand how a particular idea, bit of code, software, tool or algorithm works. I am always trying to get better ideas to solve old problems and always trying to solve new problems. But 1, 2 and 3 are important. With just 4. I would have ended up as an enthusiastic but mediocre code monkey. 1. made me think in terms of Computer Science not mere coding. Also, besides learning a lot of things I wouldn't have tackled on my own. Also it helped me make a lot of conexions between different ideas. It helped me to also learn how to effectively learn. And it made me lots of useful connections from faculty staff also working in the industry to my peers who got employed in various areas. 3. helped me talk the same language with my potential employers and solve the problems in a way my employers expect me to solve. 2. is obvious, consistency and determination is crucial for any endeavor.