"I'm 19."

A look of confusion flashes across their eyes while the eyebrows shoot up in disbelief. Their mouth simultaneously falls agape. Sometimes, even a hand raises to the heart, trying to grasp on to the shocking information they have just received. Everything they thought was true is actually false. I can practically see the steam coming out of their ears as their brain goes into overdrive.

"B-but...but I thought you were...12!"

For some reason, people everywhere seem to think that I am a mere 12-year-old. At least twice a week, I have to break the news to someone that I am, in fact, a 19-year-old going on 20. I have not been 12 for the last seven years, and yet, here I am, writing this article. Because of some unfortunate gene pairing, I stand quite small at a measly 5'3"...and shrinking. I attribute the universe's confusion with my height, but maybe there's something else. Someone care to tell me?

Anyway, while being mistaken for a 12-year-old has some perils, there are also some perks. Here are 16 perks and perils of being mistaken for a 12-year-old.

1. People like to argue with you about your OWN age.

Yes, this is actually a thing you experience quite often when people think you're 12. Upon informing someone of your real age, you're often met with, "No you're not," or "Are you sure?" Oh. Okay. Sorry. My bad. I must be wrong about my own age. My apologies.

2. When you go to the doctor, they ask you where your mom is.

"Is your mom here with you today? We can't see you unless she's here." No, she isn't here because I'M AN ADULT.

3. "What grade are you in? Seventh?"

Actually, I'm in 14th grade. I'm a sophomore in college. THANKS THOUGH.

4. Everyone thinks you're younger sibling is older than you.

Despite the fact that I'm about three years older than my little brother, people still think he's older than me..even my friends.

5. When you were younger, you thought you'd always be taller and stronger than your sibling.

I mean, being first born automatically gives you the upper hand, right? Wrong. Unfortunately, all those years of tormenting and controlling your little bro/sis have finally caught up to you—literally and figuratively. Not only are they way taller than you now, but they feel the need to get back at you for your years of playing the "I'm the oldest" card.

6. But just because you lost your height, doesn't mean you lost your strength.

You can still take your sibs—or anyone else, for that matter—down when you have to.

7. "Aw, you're so cute!!"

Pinch my cheek one more time and I will swiftly slap you.

8. When you go out to restaurants, the hostesses often look at you and ask, "Do you want a kids' menu?"

For the first few seconds, you're a little offended. Can they really not see that you are far beyond the age of 12? An adult even?

9. But then you think about the chicken nuggets you could order and rethink your decision.

Not only will your order be cheaper, but you'll be able to eat nuggs. Yes, I'll take the kids' menu, ma'am.

10. While you're driving, you get really confused looks from other drivers, especially when you emerge from the driver's seat in a parking lot.

Yes, I am old enough to drive. Yes, that's a real license.

^ What I look like to everyone else while I drive.

11. You get asked for your ID every single time you try to buy an R-rated movie ticket.

"Can I see an ID please?" Really.

12. But you can still get away with buying a child's movie ticket.

Much cheaper and no questions asked. In your FACE movie ticket guy.

13. In the line at the club, you just pray. Pray hard.

Jesus, take the wheel. Or rather, make the bouncer think you're older than 12.

Please let me in, sir.

14. You often question when you'll peak...

When will everyone stop thinking I'm a 12-year-old? Maybe never.

15. ...especially since the only boys who take interest in you are little pipsqueaks in high school. Or worse...middle school.

I mean, do I really need to explain the utter disappointment this one comes with?

16. But looking young now will benefit you in the future.

When you're fifty, you'll really look thirty. So, thanks genetics...I guess. I'll have the last laugh against all my haters.

Next time you think someone is 12, stop yourself for a second and think: do I really want to ask them how old they are? The answer is no. No, you don't. Move along. They probably have a college class or a full-time boss-ass job to attend.