Call the youngest child what you want, but being the baby of the family has some SERIOUS perks. I was fortunate to grow up with two older sisters, which gave me a chance to watch every success and every roadblock that they went through. I got a sneak peak at the hell of high school, the drama with boys, and how to do the perfect smokey eye. I continue to see what each chapter of my life will be like: college graduation, moving away from home, the first big job. I am beyond thankful for having that opportunity. Yeah, it does get a tad annoying going through old pictures and home videos of the “simpler times” (aka when I wasn’t born yet). Also, I knew it drove my sisters crazy when I third-wheeled with all of their friends. At the end of the day, though, those were some of the best memories. My sisters are my biggest cheerleaders, my biggest competitors, and my best friends. I can’t imagine where I would be right now without their guidance.

Let’s get right to it. Here are 10 reasons why being the last child is seriously a blessing in disguise.

1. You watch your older siblings make the mistakes for you.

They are your guinea pigs.

2. In your grandparents' eyes, you are the favorite.

You are the angel who can do nothing wrong.

3. You automatically know upperclassmen, because you’ve either heard about them or they've been to your house AND seen your embarrassing Hello Kitty pajamas.

4. You have thick skin from being tortured. These range from tickle fights to being called names that definitely weren't in your 7th grade vocabulary.

5. You learn how to stand up for yourself.

6. You have people that will give you HONEST and reliable advice from experience. 100% straight no chaser.

7. You’ve already seen them go through the college application process and take prep classes for the SAT. You practically feel like you have gone on the emotional roller coaster of college decisions and bad test scores with them. So, when it gets to be your turn, you’re a seasoned pro who knows exactly how everything works.

8. Did someone say hand-me-downs?

9. Your parents have already gone through the first child stress phase, so you can get away with almost anything. Basically a free-for-all.

10. You have best friends for life that will always look out for you, no matter what.