I am the oldest out of 5 siblings. I come from an atypical family situation, resulting in one half-sister, one half-brother, one full sister, and one stepsister.

I never really thought of them in the terms of how they were my siblings, because to me they are each special to me in their own way. They’ve always been my siblings and I would truly do anything for them. Being an older sister is not something everyone can say they are, and I’m so lucky to be able to have that.

My siblings, Kirsten (17), Alexa (15), Sophie (5), and Will (3) have had one of the biggest impacts on my life and continue to inspire me each day. Each one of them possess different qualities that I wish I had, they each make me want to be a better person.

Kirsten, who is the closest to me and age is in many ways much different than I am. We’ve always had different interests in things, and that is okay! Whenever we around at the same time, we are often times laughing and catching up! I admire her strive for excellence in academics, she’s always been an incredibly smart girl! I know currently she’s on her college search and I wish her all the best!

Alexa, who is ridden with terrible anxiety and learning troubles has taught me so much about the hardships in life. Even though she struggles with these things, she still pushes forward. She is the first person I go to on my bad days, I know she’ll always say something to make me laugh. I’m beyond proud of all she’s done despite being faced with many roadblocks. Not everyone can be as strong as her, I admire her strength more than she will ever know.

Sophie and Will, I’m not even sure where to start on these little monsters! They’re full of so much joy and life, and it always reminds me to try and find joy in the little things like they do. Will and Sophie possess the quality of innocence which I wish I still was able to express. The pure happiness of a child is something so infectious and something so few people keep as they grow. For Sophie and Will, I’ve learned not to take life so serious and just let simple things bring me joy.

Each one of my siblings continue to teach me about different aspects of life that I carry with me. While I’m at college, it’s often hard to not be near them because being around them is something that I cherish very much. But I always know wherever I go, they will be right there with me in my heart.