Crafting compelling essays for your University of Southern California (USC) application can be a transformative experience, not just for your academic journey but also for your personal growth. Your essays are more than a requirement; they’re a chance to showcase your unique story, passions, and aspirations. Demonstrating your character and creativity can significantly enhance your application and set you apart in a competitive field.
Many applicants struggle with expressing their true selves on paper, often feeling overwhelmed by the pressure to impress. Yet, mastering the art of storytelling can not only alleviate this stress but also empower you to connect with admissions committees in a relatable way. As you navigate this process, remember, the goal is to reflect who you are and what you stand for – ultimately making your application memorable.
Join us as we explore practical tips and strategies for writing engaging USC essays that resonate with authenticity and purpose, ensuring that your individuality shines through in every word. Your journey to compelling storytelling starts here.
Crafting Your Unique USC Essay Narrative
To create a compelling narrative for your USC essay, it’s essential to weave together your unique experiences, perspectives, and aspirations in a way that resonates with the admissions committee. A strong narrative not only highlights your individuality but also illustrates how your background and ambitions align with USC’s values and culture. Begin by identifying key moments in your life, which could range from pivotal academic achievements to personal challenges. These experiences serve as touchpoints that can be fleshed out to showcase your growth and insight.
As you craft your narrative, consider employing specific storytelling techniques that engage the reader. Use vivid descriptive language to paint a picture of your experiences-this could involve detailing a memorable event or a transformative encounter. Bring emotion into your writing by sharing sincere reflections on what these experiences taught you and how they shaped your vision for the future. This depth of insight will enable you to transcend mere facts and present a narrative that is both relatable and impactful.
Incorporating your passions and ambitions within your story is crucial. USC is known for its diverse community, vibrant culture, and commitment to innovation. By expressing what excites you within your intended field of study, you can illustrate why USC is the perfect place for you to further develop these interests. Make sure to connect your personal experiences to broader themes that reflect USC’s ethos, demonstrating not only why you’re a fit for the university but also how you envision contributing to its community.
Key Elements to Consider
- Personal Connection: Link your experiences to USC’s values.
- Emotional Engagement: Share feelings and lessons learned.
- Clarity and Focus: Maintain a clear thread throughout your narrative.
By thoughtfully integrating these elements, you will be well on your way to crafting a unique USC essay narrative that showcases not just who you are but also what you hope to achieve in your educational journey. Aim to leave a lasting impression-your narrative should be a memorable story that highlights your potential to thrive at USC.
Understanding USC’s Essay Requirements
When preparing your application to the University of Southern California (USC), understanding the specific essay requirements is pivotal for creating a competitive narrative. USC’s application encourages applicants to convey their unique personalities, aspirations, and motivations through a series of short essays. Each response should be a genuine reflection of your identity and values, aligning with the qualities USC seeks in its student body.
Firstly, familiarize yourself with the prompts outlined by USC for the current application cycle. Typically, these include short-answer questions and personal insights that demand concise yet thoughtful responses. For instance, candidates might be asked to describe themselves in three words or to elaborate on personal experiences that have shaped their perspectives. These prompts are designed to assess your self-awareness and the ability to communicate effectively.
As you draft your essays, it’s essential to adhere to the word limits provided for each prompt. While it may seem challenging, these constraints encourage clarity and precision in your storytelling. Aim to be authentic; use your voice and personal experiences to stand out. Highlight moments of significance that not only define who you are but also showcase your ability to thrive in a bustling, diverse community like USC.
Lastly, remember to convey why USC is the right environment for your academic and personal growth. This includes reflecting on how the university’s offerings-such as specific programs, cultural initiatives, or community involvement-align with your future aspirations. By integrating these elements thoughtfully, you will demonstrate both a commitment to your personal journey and an understanding of how you can contribute to and benefit from the USC community.
Crafting your unique narrative requires careful attention to these requirements, but with the right approach, you can create a compelling essay that resonates with the admissions committee.
Identifying Your Personal Themes and Messages
Identifying the core themes and messages that resonate with your experiences is crucial for crafting a compelling narrative for your USC application essays. Think of your life as a collection of stories, each with its own underlying themes. These themes not only represent who you are but also connect your personal experiences with broader ideas and values that will resonate with the admissions committee.
To begin, engage in self-reflection. Ask yourself what pivotal moments in your life have shaped your identity. Consider questions such as:
- What experiences have inspired my passions?
- What challenges have I overcome that illustrate my resilience?
- How have my cultural background and upbringing influenced my perspective?
These reflections will help you uncover deeper themes like perseverance, creativity, community involvement, or a commitment to social justice. Once you’ve identified a few key themes, aim to weave them into your essays. For example, if resilience is a central theme, share a story about a significant obstacle you’ve faced and how it shaped your character, emphasizing the lessons learned and how they align with your aspirations at USC.
Another effective technique is to think about your goals and how they relate to your personal themes. Ask yourself how your experiences and values are guiding you toward your future endeavors. This will not only help to clarify your motivations but will also create a cohesive narrative that reflects your journey and ambition. For instance, if your theme centers around community service, you could discuss how your volunteer work has influenced your academic interests and future career goals, tying it back to USC’s resources or programs that align with this passion.
Lastly, ensure that the themes you select are authentic representations of yourself. The best essays come from a place of sincerity and personal truth, allowing your unique voice to shine through. By thoughtfully identifying and incorporating your personal themes and messages, you create a narrative that not only captivates but also demonstrates your fit for the vibrant community at USC.
Showcasing Your Passion and Ambitions
When it comes to expressing your passions and ambitions in your USC essay, authenticity is key. This is your opportunity to illuminate the core of who you are, showcasing not just what excites you but also how those interests have developed over time. Start by brainstorming the moments in your life that sparked a passion or ambition. Consider specific experiences or influences that have driven you to pursue certain goals. For example, if a community project ignited your interest in social work, share how it shaped your understanding of societal needs and your commitment to making a difference.
Once you’ve identified these pivotal experiences, aim to weave them into a narrative that captures your journey. A compelling approach is to frame your aspirations within the context of challenges you’ve faced. Perhaps your ambition to study environmental science arose from witnessing local pollution issues; narrate that experience vividly, detailing your emotional response and the subsequent actions you took. This not only highlights your passion but also emphasizes your proactive nature and resilience, traits USC values.
To strengthen your essay, align your passions with the specific resources at USC. Research programs or initiatives that resonate with your ambitions and mention them explicitly in your essay. For instance, if you aspire to become a leader in the tech industry, discuss how USC’s innovative technology programs or their entrepreneurial resources can help you realize your dreams. This connection demonstrates to the admissions committee your understanding of and fitting into their academic community.
Lastly, infuse your writing with enthusiasm and detail. Instead of simply stating that you are passionate about art, describe the feeling you get when you create, or the way art serves as a lens through which you view the world. Use descriptive language to evoke emotions and paint a picture of your ambitions, making it clear why they matter to you. By doing so, you create a vivid narrative that not only showcases your passions but also engages the reader and makes your application memorable.
Techniques for Effective Storytelling in Essays
Crafting a compelling narrative in your USC essay is vital for making a lasting impression on the admissions committee. Effective storytelling captivates the reader and illustrates your character, experiences, and ambitions in a way that raw facts alone cannot achieve. To enhance your essay’s storytelling elements, consider these techniques that can elevate your application from ordinary to extraordinary.
One of the most powerful techniques is the use of a strong opening. An engaging hook-a thought-provoking question, a vivid scene, or a surprising fact-can draw the reader in immediately. For example, starting with a brief anecdote about a defining moment in your life can set the tone for your essay. This approach not only captures attention but can also provide the backdrop against which your journey unfolds.
Creating Emotional Connection is crucial. Readers resonate with authentic emotions, so don’t shy away from sharing vulnerable moments. Relate specific experiences that challenged you or shaped your perspectives. Describe not just what happened, but also how you felt during those times. Highlighting your emotional responses will enable the admissions committee to connect with you on a personal level, making your story memorable.
Paint Vivid Pictures with Descriptive Language
Utilizing descriptive language is essential for bringing your story to life. Instead of simply stating facts, show the reader your experiences through sensory details. Consider how your narrative would change if you included elements like sights, sounds, and feelings. For instance, rather than saying “I helped with a community project,” elaborate on the atmosphere of the project, who you worked with, and how it made you feel fulfilled. This vivid imagery draws the reader into your world and enriches their understanding of your experiences.
Incorporating themes and messages is another effective strategy. As you construct your narrative, think about the central themes or lessons you want to communicate. Identify moments where you faced obstacles and explain what you learned from them. This reflective approach not only demonstrates your ability to grow and adapt but also shows your readiness for the challenges of college life.
Lastly, keep your narrative focused. Throughout your essay, ensure that each part contributes to your overall message. If a story doesn’t enhance your main themes or showcase your character, consider revising it or omitting it entirely. A concise and well-structured essay will leave a stronger impression than one filled with extraneous details.
By incorporating these techniques into your USC essay, you not only enhance its narrative quality but also reveal more of yourself to the admissions committee. Remember, compelling storytelling allows you to showcase not only your achievements and aspirations but also the unique journey that has shaped who you are today.
Utilizing Personal Experiences to Stand Out
Personal experiences are not just stories to tell; they are the foundation upon which you can construct a compelling narrative that distinguishes you from other candidates. When writing your USC essay, think of these experiences as vibrant threads woven into the tapestry of your life. Each thread carries a specific color and texture-reflecting your growth, passions, and unique perspective. Start by identifying experiences that have significantly shaped your character or ambitions. These can range from achievements, challenges, community involvement, or even pivotal moments that prompted personal growth.
Begin by brainstorming a list of moments that resonate with you. Ask yourself questions such as: What experiences have truly shaped who I am today? How did I respond to challenges, and what was the outcome? For instance, if you volunteered at a local shelter, describe not just what you did, but also what you learned from the individuals you served and how it affected your worldview. Detail the atmosphere, the emotions you felt, and the friendships that blossomed. This level of honesty and depth ensures that your essay is imbued with authenticity.
Crafting Your Narrative
As you articulate these experiences in your essay, focus on storytelling techniques that highlight your emotions and insights. Use descriptive language to draw readers into your narrative. For example, instead of stating, “I learned to lead a team,” illustrate a scene where you rallied your peers during a challenging project. Describe the room, the tension, and how you felt as an emerging leader. This not only demonstrates your leadership skills but also invites readers to connect with your journey on a deeper level.
Furthermore, reflect on these experiences. What themes emerge from them, and how have they informed your academic interests or career aspirations? If a moment in your life ignited your passion for engineering, elaborate on that connection. Perhaps a family project allowed you to explore the basics of robotics; share your excitement and the lessons learned along the way. Emphasizing this reflection illustrates not just your journey, but also your readiness to take on the academic challenges that await you at USC.
By utilizing personal experiences in your essay, you not only tell your story but also emphasize your distinct journey. Your essay becomes a platform to express who you are in a way that statistics and accolades cannot. Embrace your unique narrative, for it is this authenticity that resonates most with the admissions committee.
Incorporating Reflection and Growth in Writing
To craft an impactful USC essay, integrating reflection and growth into your writing is essential. Reflective storytelling allows you to transform mere experiences into enriching narratives that reveal your character and adaptability. Start by revisiting key moments in your life that triggered personal evolution. Consider challenging situations, achievements, or transformative experiences that pushed you to grow. As you delve into these moments, ask yourself: How did this experience change my perspective? What did I learn about myself? These questions serve as a lens through which you can articulate your journey, emphasizing the lessons learned along the way.
To illustrate your growth, use specific examples that showcase how challenges and achievements have shaped your aspirations. For instance, if you took on a leadership role in a community project, don’t just discuss the role itself; reflect on what that experience taught you about collaboration and responsibility. Describe how you implemented feedback from peers, navigated conflicts, or adapted to unexpected changes. This approach not only highlights your growth mindset but also engages the reader with vivid, relatable experiences.
Another effective method is to draw connections between your past experiences and your future goals. If a particular experience sparked your interest in a field of study, elaborate on that pivotal moment. Use this opportunity to connect your past to your intended path at USC. Explain how the insights you gained from your experiences will influence your academic journey, showcasing that you are not only ready for the challenges ahead but also excited about the opportunities to further develop your passions.
Lastly, ensure your reflections reveal authenticity. Authenticity resonates with admissions committees, allowing them to connect with you on a personal level. Share both your triumphs and the hurdles you’ve faced, as vulnerability can enhance your narrative. As you refine these reflections in your writing, remember to maintain a balance between storytelling and insight; the goal is to present a cohesive narrative that illustrates not just who you are, but who you aspire to become. Embrace this reflective journey in your USC essay, and let your growth shine through every word.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in USC Essays
Crafting an impressive USC essay can mean the difference between being accepted or rejected. One of the most critical aspects of writing your essay is avoiding common pitfalls that could undermine your narrative. Students often overlook these mistakes, so recognizing and sidestepping them is essential for telling a compelling story that resonates with the admissions committee.
One prevalent error is not adhering to the essay prompt. Each year, USC provides specific questions designed to gauge your experiences and aspirations. Failing to answer the prompt directly can make your essay feel disjointed or irrelevant. Make sure your response aligns closely with what the prompt is asking. Read it multiple times and ensure your story connects to the themes presented within the question.
Another mistake is focusing too much on achievements without reflection. While it’s great to highlight accomplishments, admissions officers are interested in your journey. Instead of merely stating what you’ve achieved, dive deep into how these experiences impacted you. For example, rather than saying, “I was the captain of my soccer team,” you might convey, “As captain, I learned the importance of teamwork and resilience through both wins and losses, which taught me how to lead effectively under pressure.”
Additionally, be cautious of using clichés or generic statements that lack personal significance. Writing phrases like “I have a passion for helping others” without context can make your essay feel formulaic. Instead, share a specific anecdote that illustrates your commitment to service. This not only brings authenticity to your essay but also helps the reader connect with your personal experiences on a deeper level.
Finally, neglecting the revision process can significantly hinder your essay’s effectiveness. Many students write their drafts and submit without seeking feedback or revisiting their work. Make it a point to review your essay multiple times, focusing on clarity, grammar, and overall flow. Consider sharing your draft with peers, teachers, or mentors who can provide constructive feedback. Their insights can help you polish your narrative and ensure that you present your best self to the admissions committee.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can craft a more compelling USC essay that showcases your unique story and authentic self, ultimately increasing your chances of success in the application process.
How to Edit and Revise Your Essay Effectively
Effective editing and revising are crucial steps in the journey of crafting a compelling USC essay. Many students complete their drafts but fail to realize that the first version is rarely perfect. Editing is not just about fixing grammar or spelling; it’s about refining your voice, sharpening your narrative, and ensuring that every word contributes to a cohesive story.
One useful approach is to take a break after your initial draft. Stepping away for a few hours-or even a day-allows you to return with fresh eyes, making it easier to identify areas that need improvement. When you begin your revisions, focus on the overall structure. Ask yourself: Does your essay have a clear beginning, middle, and end? Each paragraph should serve a purpose and flow logically from one to the next. Creating an outline based on your draft can help you visualize the flow and organization of your ideas.
Additionally, prioritize clarity and conciseness. Each sentence should convey a specific idea or piece of information without unnecessary fluff. As you edit, ask yourself if each word adds value to your essay. If a sentence feels convoluted or a point seems repetitive, don’t hesitate to revise for simplicity. For instance, instead of saying, “I have a profound interest in environmental science,” you might opt for “I am passionate about environmental science,” which conveys the same message more directly.
Another essential element is tone and voice. Make sure your personality shines through in your writing. If your essay feels formal or stiff, consider infusing it with more of your unique voice. This can be achieved by using anecdotes, humor, or relatable reflections that reflect who you are. Engage the reader with specific stories or examples that illustrate your points. Finally, once you have made your revisions, share your essay with trusted peers or mentors for feedback. They can offer insights on clarity, coherence, and whether your essay authentically represents your experiences, giving you a broader perspective before finalizing your submission.
By adopting these strategies, you can significantly enhance your USC essay, making it not just a requirement but an opportunity to showcase your unique journey and aspirations. Remember, this is your story-so let it resonate!
Seeking Feedback: Best Practices for Improvement
Feedback is a crucial part of the essay writing process, especially when it comes to crafting a compelling narrative for your USC application. Engaging trusted peers, mentors, or educators can provide fresh perspectives that enhance your essay’s clarity and impact. When selecting who to share your work with, consider individuals who understand both your personal story and the nuances of college admissions. This could include teachers who have experience with the college essay process, family members who know your journey, or friends who can offer an honest critique.
Strategies for Effective Feedback
To make the most of feedback, it’s essential to approach it methodically. Here are several strategies to ensure you receive actionable and constructive insights:
- Be Specific: Instead of asking, “What do you think?” guide your readers with specific questions like, “Does my essay clearly convey my passion for environmental science?” or “Does the story I shared resonate with you?” This focus can lead to more useful feedback.
- Encourage Honest Assessments: Let your reviewers know that you value candid opinions. Even if it feels uncomfortable, understanding what doesn’t work as well as what does can ultimately strengthen your essay.
- Request Feedback in Stages: Rather than asking for feedback on the entire essay at once, consider breaking it down. Get opinions on the general structure before moving on to specific paragraphs or themes.
- Utilize Online Resources: Platforms like writing centers at schools or online writing forums can provide additional critiques. They can highlight common pitfalls and offer a wider range of perspectives.
Integrating Feedback
Once you’ve gathered feedback, it’s crucial to process and integrate it effectively. Not every piece of advice may resonate with your vision for the essay; therefore, prioritize which suggestions align with your narrative.
- Compare Notes: If you receive mixed feedback, analyze trends in comments. If multiple readers point out the same area for improvement, that’s a strong indication of where to focus your revisions.
- Trust Your Voice: While feedback is valuable, remember that you are the ultimate authority on your story. Retain the essence of your voice and make revisions that feel authentic to you.
Incorporating thoughtful feedback can set your essay apart, turning it into a compelling narrative that encapsulates your journey and aspirations. Embrace the revision process as part of your growth, and trust that each draft brings you closer to an essay that truly reflects who you are.
Final Touches: Formatting and Submission Tips
Crafting a polished and professional essay is as crucial as its content, especially when it comes to applications like those for USC. Attention to formatting and submission guidelines can make a significant difference in how your narrative is perceived. Ensuring that your essay is visually appealing and adheres to the specific formatting requirements stands out to admissions committees and reflects your commitment and attention to detail.
First, carefully review USC’s specific formatting guidelines. Typically, this includes aspects such as font style and size-commonly required to be 12-point Times New Roman or a similar easy-to-read font-with 1-inch margins on all sides. Pay attention to spacing; most applications favor double-spacing, as it enhances readability. Correctly paragraphing your content, while avoiding overly long blocks of text, allows for easier engagement by the reader. Consider breaking up longer sections with headings or bullet points if allowed, giving your essay a structured and well-organized appearance.
Proofreading and Final Checks
Before you hit submit, conduct a thorough proofreading session. This entails checking for not only grammatical errors and typos but also ensuring consistency in your formatting. Read your essay aloud to catch awkward phrasing or unclear thoughts that may hinder the flow. Don’t hesitate to utilize tools like grammar checkers, but remember, they are not a substitute for careful human review. It’s also effective to print out your essay or read it on a different screen, as this can help you see it from a fresh perspective.
Lastly, consider the submission process seriously. Early submission is advised to avoid any last-minute technical difficulties. Ensure that your essay is uploaded in the correct format, whether that be a PDF or Word document, according to USC’s submission requirements. Double-check that you maintain any required character limits, as cutting your essay down last-minute can lead to mistakes or the loss of crucial points in your narrative. This attention to the finish line in your essay presentation reflects your conscientiousness and can elevate your application in a competitive field.
In summary, taking the time to finalize your essay with careful formatting, thorough proofreading, and strategic submission practices will not only enhance your narrative but instill confidence in the admissions team regarding your commitment and diligence. Trust that these final touches are more than mere formalities; they can help articulate the unique stories you bring to the USC community.
Building Confidence for Your Writing Journey
Writing an application essay can often feel like a daunting task, but understanding that this is your opportunity to share your unique voice and experiences can be incredibly empowering. It’s essential to remember that everyone faces challenges during the writing process, and building confidence is key to overcoming those hurdles. Your story has intrinsic value, and articulating it effectively can create a strong connection with admissions committees.
To cultivate confidence in your writing journey, begin by embracing the brainstorming process. This stage is about recognizing your own narrative and identifying the elements that resonate most with your personal journey. Take a moment to jot down significant life experiences, achievements, and challenges that have shaped who you are today. Consider how these moments can illustrate your skills, passions, and ambitions. Sharing your experiences, such as community service projects or personal challenges, can create a compelling narrative that highlights your resilience and dedication.
Once you have your thoughts organized, creating a structured outline helps in building clarity and focus, which in turn fosters confidence. An outline can serve as a roadmap, guiding you through the essay-writing process while allowing you to see how your ideas fit together. This not only alleviates anxiety about what to write next but also provides a visual aid to spot potential gaps or areas that need further development. Remember to keep your outline flexible; it can evolve as your ideas grow and change throughout the writing process.
Engaging in regular writing practice can further boost your confidence. Set aside time each day to write without the fear of judgment; this could be free writing, journaling, or even drafting parts of your essay. Establishing a routine helps demystify the writing process and reinforces the idea that writing is a skill that improves with practice. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles or tones until you find one that feels authentic to you.
Lastly, seek support from peers, mentors, or writing groups who can provide constructive feedback. Sharing your work in a safe and supportive environment encourages collaborative learning and often leads to discovering new perspectives about your own narrative. Remember, it’s normal for the writing process to feel challenging; using it as a means for growth will reinforce your self-esteem and transform any initial apprehension into a sense of accomplishment as you progress.
By viewing your essay as a personal story worth telling and breaking it down into manageable steps, you can approach the writing journey with increased confidence and clarity, allowing your true self to shine through in your application to USC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the key elements of a strong USC essay?
A: A strong USC essay includes a clear theme, personal storytelling, and reflection on experiences. Focus on showcasing your passion, growth, and unique perspective to create a compelling narrative. For more detailed guidance, refer to sections on “Understanding USC’s Essay Requirements” and “Techniques for Effective Storytelling in Essays.”
Q: How can I make my USC essay stand out?
A: To make your USC essay stand out, incorporate personal anecdotes that reflect your values and aspirations. Use vivid language and specific examples to illustrate your points. Highlight unique experiences and insights that reveal your character. Explore the section “Utilizing Personal Experiences to Stand Out” for additional tips.
Q: What common mistakes should I avoid in my USC essays?
A: Common mistakes to avoid include failing to answer the prompt directly, using cliches, and neglecting to proofread. Ensure your essay reflects your voice and story. Check “Common Mistakes to Avoid in USC Essays” for a comprehensive list of pitfalls to sidestep.
Q: How important is the editing process for my USC essays?
A: The editing process is crucial for USC essays as it helps refine your ideas, enhance clarity, and eliminate errors. Consider seeking feedback from peers or mentors to gain fresh perspectives. Visit the “How to Edit and Revise Your Essay Effectively” section for strategies on refining your work.
Q: When should I start writing my USC application essays?
A: Start writing your USC application essays as early as possible, ideally several months before the deadline. Early brainstorming and drafting allow ample time for reflection and revisions. Check the deadlines outlined in “Understanding USC’s Essay Requirements” to plan your writing schedule effectively.
Q: How can I incorporate personal growth into my USC essays?
A: Incorporate personal growth by reflecting on challenges you’ve faced and the lessons learned from them. Highlight how these experiences shaped your values and aspirations. Explore the section on “Incorporating Reflection and Growth in Writing” for practical examples and techniques.
Q: What role does storytelling play in USC essays?
A: Storytelling plays a vital role in USC essays by engaging readers and making your experiences relatable. Use narrative techniques to create a connection, evoke emotions, and provide context for your journey. For storytelling tips, refer to “Techniques for Effective Storytelling in Essays.”
Q: How can feedback improve my USC essays?
A: Feedback can significantly improve your USC essays by providing new insights and identifying areas for enhancement. Share drafts with trusted peers or mentors who can offer constructive criticism. For best practices, explore “Seeking Feedback: Best Practices for Improvement” to maximize your revisions.
In Conclusion
Now that you have the tools to craft compelling stories for your USC application, it’s time to put them into action. Remember, your essays are an opportunity to showcase who you are beyond grades and test scores-don’t miss the chance to captivate your readers with your unique narrative. For further inspiration, check out our guides on writing personal statements and dissecting successful supplemental essays.
Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t hesitate to seek additional help through our consultations or explore our collection of essay examples to refine your approach. By taking these steps, you’re not just preparing your application; you’re setting the stage for your future success at USC and beyond.
Start writing today, and elevate your application with powerful narratives that resonate. Your journey toward USC begins with a single essay-make it count!
