Being the oldest sibling isn't easy. It comes with a lot of work and a lot of responsibility. It also comes with a lot of laughs and good times. As the oldest of five, I've done things most girls my age haven't even thought of. I also have some amazing memories I wouldn't trade for the world.

Becoming an older sister four times has forced me to grow up faster than other kids. That's not a bad thing. In fact, I think it is part of the reason why I've always been mature for my age. Ever since my first sister was born, I was taught to love and care for another person. I learned the value of spending time with someone and to really be there for them. From a young age, I learned how to cook, change diapers, clean and do dishes. Sharing was also a big thing my parents really wanted us to understand. Though it was something I struggled with initially, especially because I was an only child for the first four years of my life, I learned to share clothes, toys, food and attention. In a household full of people, I often wasn't my parent's priority because my younger siblings needed them more. This way I became independent and learned to depend on myself, a skill that became very useful especially when I had to move out and go to college.

There are also many perks that come with being the oldest. First of all, I never got any hand-me downs, and I always got new clothes and stuff. Second of all, I always had fun outsmarting or messing with my younger siblings. And finally I always felt like I was important because I knew they looked up to me. This has always pushed me and motivated me to be a better person and to make the correct choices because I wanted to be a good example for them to follow. I also wanted them to know I was there for them in time of need, and that they could always count on me. Thanks to them, I also learned to give some pretty good advice.

I know sometimes I don't seem overly grateful or I complain about my parents being stricter on me than they are on my siblings, but I also know that I am very lucky. Yes, my house is extremely loud. Yes, sometimes I can't go out with my friends because I have to babysit. And yes, I wouldn't want it any other way because I know that no matter what, at the end of the day, I have four best friends by my side and I'm never alone.