I'm the second oldest of six kids, so I come from a pretty big family. And had you asked me a couple of years ago if I liked being a part of a big family, I probably would have a different answer than I do today. Since going to college, I've really thought about what it was like to grow up with a big family.

I've realized that I am never alone. There is always someone, somewhere in the house. I've been able to watch most of my siblings grow up, and share millions of memories with them. Being older has taught me great responsibility and how to handle tons of sticky situations with siblings. Having lots of siblings keeps life interesting and always keeps me laughing. Over the years, I've realized that I can never expect to arrive on time anywhere. Getting everyone to get in the car takes only 30 minutes on a good day. One of the kids always gets in somewhere for free because people can't keep count of all of us. Movie theater ticketers, amusement park employees, you name it; at least one kid has always slipped in through the cracks. My family calls this "overwhelming with superior forces". I've shared so many laughs with my siblings and I am so close to each one of them. Long car rides are nothing because we all entertain each other. Even though it takes a village just to go out to eat, it's always worth it. And trust me, my dad would rather us eat at a sit down restaurant than order at the drive thru. Someone's order is always messed up and it takes forever for my dad to relay our custom orders to the drive thru person. Family picture days are our most dreaded days of the year. Imagine being smushed in between eight people posing in uncomfortable outfits for hours on end. Usually after family pictures, we get rewarded with donuts or candy. Through all of the graduations, recitals and games, my huge family was always in the front row, cheering the loudest for me. I've gained so much support and confidence through my family because I know that they will always build me up.

When I was younger, I sometimes felt a little embarrassed about having a big family because it was something that always made me different. Now I've realized that I am so lucky to have so many people I'm so close to in my life. Someone will always be there for me. No matter what, I will always have a strong support system waiting for me back home.