personal statement for masters in mental health

Mental Health Counseling Personal Statement Example

by Talha Omer, M.Eng., Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field.

The following essay was written by an applicant who was admitted to top US master’s programs in mental health counseling. Variations of this personal statement got accepted at Boston University, Harvard, and Yale.

This personal statement is intended to provide an example of a successful essay for a top counseling and psychology program in specializing in mental health.

Sample Personal Statement for Counseling (Mental Health)

Nietzsche’s quote, “that which doesn’t kill us, makes us stronger,” captures my life’s journey. Lying in a hospital bed as a sixteen-year-old cancer patient, I resigned to accepting my inevitabile death. Yet, as the annihilating poison from chemotherapy went through my veins and into every fiber of my living body, I experienced an unfamiliar pain. As I lay there, I contemplated questions about life, death, God, souls, love, and pain. My parents and siblings would try to provide comfort. Sometimes it worked. At other times, I would wonder if this is all my life would be. Where the title of my life story could have been “Endless Possibilities,” would this story now be just a few pages long, ending with an unfinished sentence? And then I would freeze into a crippling stupor for hours.

Cancer treatment affects one at multiple levels: it starts by attacking one’s body, then impacts one’s mind, and eventually, it grates at one’s soul. Physically I felt like my entire body was rotting away. My hair falling out seemed like a cruel joke for a beautiful teenage girl. Emotionally and spiritually, my cancer brought me face to face with the overwhelming concept of death. None of this made sense to me, no matter how hard anyone tried to convince me otherwise.

After reaching my lowest, my mind quieted down. I started seeing some things very differently. It’s thought that mythical figures like Jacob, Oedipus, and even Jesus, were said to walk with a limp. This disillusionment of their physical body opened their souls and uncovered their ability to feel. In flashes of conscious awareness, I saw concern when my sister silently grieved with me. My heartfelt, unburdened with my father’s tears. Affection touched my broken soul with a doctor looking into my eyes and asking how I was. I felt a life force with my mother feeding me bland, tasteless food. Then, this intense gratitude came to me that if I were to live, I wanted to heal other people’s pain. In the following months, my body, mind, and soul strengthened, and I decided to study psychology and do social work, which I started right after high-school.

When I was twenty years old, my older brother was diagnosed with clinical depression. I could understand the pain he was going through, and I tried helping him. I used to counsel him to the best of my ability. I supported him in fighting his overpowering daemons, reinforcing his doctor’s and therapist’s work. But he lost his will to live two years later and ended his life. His loss shattered me. 

As I pieced together my life after his loss, I enrolled in a Master’s program in Anthropology .  I wanted to study different people, religions, and cultures. I knew that I had a lot of empathy for people, and I tried to understand issues of diversity and disability academically. So, during my Master’s, I worked with sex workers, adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse, transvestites, and transgender individuals to understand how these individuals from the most marginalized segments of our society can cope with a pain that no one would want even to understand.

During my Master’s program, I joined  American Counseling Works (ACW)  to develop my skillset to become a better helper. ACW is a training institute and sanctuary for healing mental health issues. It was here that I unreservedly spoke about all the pain that had taken up residence inside me. The beautiful journey of being in therapy helped me find peace in accepting all parts of me. I heard my voice answering questions about life, death, God, souls, love, and pain. I experienced what the field of psychology calls “post-traumatic growth” and what my favorite teacher Michael Soth calls “becoming a wounded healer.”

Given my superior performance at ACW, I was one of the first students in my class to be allowed to work with clients. As a result, I was given the additional responsibility of coordinating and managing the families of the in-patient clients. In the past few months of working, I have been genuinely fulfilled by taking up a career in counseling and therapy. Through this, I can heal with compassion and counseling skills.

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How to Write a Personal Statement for a Counseling Master’s

Need to write a personal statement for your counseling graduate school application? This guide will help you craft a standout statement by focusing on your unique experiences and aligning them with your program.

Key takeaways

• A compelling personal statement for a counseling master’s program should narrate personal characteristics, career aspirations, and potential contributions, connecting with the admissions committee beyond academic achievements.
• The personal statement should follow a clear narrative and provide specific examples from academic, professional and extracurricular experiences to demonstrate your readiness for the program, while demonstrating fit by aligning personal values and goals with the program’s unique offerings.
• Start early, stay organized, and maintain a professional tone while writing your personal statement; address any weaknesses thoughtfully and avoid common mistakes such as clichés, excessive praise, or misuse of buzzwords.

Understanding the personal statement

The personal statement is your chance to give admissions officers a clear picture of who you are beyond the grades and jobs listed in your transcripts and resume. It’s a narrative essay that details your personality, career aspirations , and potential contributions to the field of mental health counseling. Crafting compelling personal statements is crucial to making a lasting impression on the admissions team. Think of a personal statement as the thing that transforms you from a collection of data points to a memorable portrait for those reviewing your graduate school application.

Key questions to consider before you begin

As you begin the writing process, make some notes of your past experiences. Here are some prompts to help you brainstorm the contents of your essay:

• What life events made you into the resilient, determined individual you are today?
• How have experiences in your academic background prepared you for grad school?
• Have your career goals changed from what they were during your undergraduate education? Why?
• Has a family member inspired you to take this path, either through their career or personal experiences?
• Can you pinpoint the spark that ignited your passion for counseling, the moment when you realized that it could be your future career?

As you piece together your narrative, consider how these experiences align with your academic and career goals, as well as the broader impact you envision making through your work.

Essential components of a successful personal statement

Perhaps the most intimidating thing about a graduate school personal statement is knowing that you have a lot to communicate in a relatively short essay. You need to thread your personal background with your aspirations, using examples that encapsulate your commitment, and demonstrating a clear fit for the counseling program you’re aiming to join. But if you make an outline and list all the things you want to mention, you can be sure to properly accentuate your unique strengths and also paint a vivid picture of your potential success.

Crafting a clear narrative

Keep in mind that your narrative is not a full autobiography but a focused reflection of your resilience and empathy and the other corners of your life that have informed your desire to support others as a counselor. Share those poignant moments and insights that underscore your drive and passion for helping other people, and ensure that your narrative communicates not just a series of events, but the values and strengths you bring to the program. Don't forget that the personal essay also provides an opportunity to explain any discrepancies you think might come across in your other application materials such as poor grades or professional experiences in an unrelated field.

Using specific examples

Each assertion about yourself should be backed by solid examples. Specific examples, whether they are from your academic, professional, or recreational experiences, provide the evidence that substantiates your suitability for the graduate program.

Perhaps you’ve delved into personal research on mental health initiatives, or you’ve dedicated time to volunteer work that’s enriched your understanding of community needs. These anecdotes are the good examples that will allow the admissions committee to see beyond your transcripts and test scores, into the heart of your commitment and potential.

Demonstrating program fit

Demonstrating fit with the graduate program requires an understanding of the program’s strengths and a clear articulation of how its offerings align with your career aspirations.

For instance, if you’re drawn to Oklahoma City University’s commitment to social justice within their counseling program , mention how your values and experiences resonate with this ethos. Discussing aspects of a particular program that align with your future plans can distinguish you as a worthwhile applicant, genuinely interested in the unique offerings of the program. Most graduate programs will have full curriculums and faculty listed online. Make note of courses that sound exciting , faculty members who are conducting research projects you're interested in, and program outcome statements that align with your career goals, and find a way to mention them in your statement. By highlighting these specific elements, you show that you have done your research and are genuinely interested in the program.

Key tips for writing a personal statement

As you work on your grad school essay, remember these crucial pointers:

Start early and stay organized

Don't underestimate the time it will take you to write your best personal statement. Take the time to brainstorm, self-reflect, and polish your narrative until it shines with clarity and purpose.

Organization is your compass in this process, helping you navigate deadlines, requirements, and revisions with ease. Keep a keen eye on the specifics, such as word counts, spelling of university names, and formatting, ensuring that your personal statement not only meets expectations but exceeds them.

Addressing weaknesses thoughtfully

While your accomplishments will shine in your personal statement, don’t hesitate to acknowledge the challenges that have intermittently clouded them. Addressing weaknesses such as a low GPA or a challenging phase in your academic journey can actually highlight your resilience and capability for growth.

However, tread thoughtfully. Reflect on whether the personal statement is the right place to discuss these issues, and if so, ensure that the narrative emphasizes your positive qualities and the lessons learned, rather than dwelling on the negatives.

Maintaining a professional tone

A personal statement marred by grammatical errors or colloquialisms can weaken the impression you’re trying to make. Be genuine, be yourself, but remember the context. This document is a professional communication with the admissions committee, and as such, it should reflect the seriousness with which you approach this opportunity. While tools like ChatGPT could help you create an outline or can perform a grammar check on your application, avoid using it to actually write. The best personal statements resonate from their authenticity. Additionally, many graduate programs have tools they use to scan for the use of such technology and may count it against you.

Common mistakes to avoid

Beware of starting with clichés or ending with banalities—your opening and closing lines should be as impactful as the core of your statement. Avoid excessive praise of the field, focusing only on academic achievements, and misusing buzzwords. These common missteps can dilute the authenticity of your narrative and leave the admissions committee underwhelmed. Remember, admissions committees are reading hundreds of personal statements, make yours stand out.

Get help writing your personal statement for Oklahoma City University

For those aiming to be part of Oklahoma City University’s online M.Ed. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program, rest assured that guidance is available throughout this process. Admissions outreach advisors are at your disposal, ready to guide you through every step of crafting a personal statement that resonates with the program’s ethos and expectations.

Schedule a call to tap into the wealth of knowledge and support that OCU offers. From writing your personal statement, to putting together your letters of recommendation , to preparing for your interview , their expertise can be the beacon that illuminates your path to a successful graduate school application.

Return to Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Complete the form below before proceeding to the application portal.

Oklahoma City University has engaged Everspring , a leading provider of education and technology services, to support select aspects of program delivery.

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PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE Mental Health Nursing Personal Statement

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Mental Health Nursing Personal Statement

I am applying for a Mental Health Nursing degree because I want to help people who suffer from mental illness. With the skills I have acquired whilst working as a support worker and whilst studying a Health Professions course, I believe I will achieve my goal of going to university.

I gained some insight into a mental health career whilst working part-time as a support worker. The role includes writing care plans, interacting with the patients as well as carrying out ward rounds with a group of healthcare professionals.I would like to expand my knowledge further at a degree level and possibly higher. I’m also aware of the importance of treating people in a non-judgemental manner and to respect equality in a mental health setting such as working with employees and clients with different religious beliefs and different cultures. I feel it is important to use the Mental Health role to promote mental health illness to the public. I am convinced that mental illness is an area in which most people are uncomfortable either talking about or taking part in preventing and supporting those who suffer from mental issues. I have excellent communication skills which I have gained through working in care .For example when I am communicating with clients that have trouble speaking, I will use good body language and good eye contact. I sometimes use objects such as toys when they want to play or a spoon when it is time to eat. I learned to use documentation when working with clients as each individual client has a care plan that we use to write their daily notes such as personal care, activities and appointments with doctors. This helps the other employees during handover because they will know how to help the clients based on the documentation I have written. This has taught me the importance of communication and team work as it contributes to successfully support people who suffer from mental illness.

I have a stammer but I managed to enroll on a speech therapy program called McGuire program. The program gave me confidence and my speech has improved since then. The program made me face my fear of speaking. The program helped me to accept my speech problem and taught me to live with my stammer. One of the techniques used were, they made me speak to 100 strangers and disclosing to the strangers that “I have a stammer and I have been hiding for years but now I am happy as a stammerer and I now have gained control of my speech”. The program helped me to apply the skills I have learnt on the program and implement them directly to my mental health work for example , It taught me to empathise with people that suffer from mental illness and to always give consideration when communicating with them so that they can be comfortable communicating with me .

I was born and raised in South Africa and moved to England for career opportunities. I have had many family members who work in a mental health setting and I saw the satisfaction they receive from helping patients. I have also had family members suffer from mental health problems, but with my family member having experience with the mental health professional experience, they were able to offer advice on how they can be treated. That inspired me to pursue a career in mental health. I know that studying Mental Health Nursing at university will be challenging because health care professionals must have the ability to make decisions, show compassion and support the diverse needs of individuals in their care. The role will test my skills and abilities however I am confident that I can meet these challenges and choosing nursing will help me fulfil my ambition of supporting and treating others in a mental healthcare environment.

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Mental health nursing personal statement example 1.

I would like to study nursing because I feel it will lead me directly to one of the most emotionally fulfilling careers available, as well as giving me the chance combine helping people's mental well being with their physical health. It would give me the opportunity to study something that involves both academic and practical study, which I feel would suit me best.

One of the areas I am most interested in is mental health nursing, a career that needs patience and empathy, and which could be especially rewarding in terms of the help I could give. Having parents who have both worked as social workers has given me an open minded knowledge of what work in this area really entails.

I am also interested in the contrasting portrayals of mental health within the media and especially enjoyed reading both Jeffrey Masson's take on psychotherapy in 'Against Therapy,' and Ken Kesey's portrayl of a mental health institution in the 1950's.

Whilst helping to further my sister's development I attended one day Makaton and Numicon sessions, learning how to teach and use both effectively. I was particularly interested in how much practicing different communication methods could make a difference in the lives of those with learning disabilities and their families.

I have also sat in on both group and one on one speech therapy sessions and was able to see the effects of these over time. It was interesting to see how the sessions were adapted to suit children of different ability and ages. It was also informative to see how much the parents were involved and taught to carry forward the techniques so just one session would be effective for a much longer time.

For work experience I spent a week at Amwell View special school in Hertfordshire. For the first part of the week I worked with a small class of children of similar ability, and was able to see how play, art and music were used to help their educational development as well as how the children were taught to develop socially.

For the second part of the week I helped with organising the school summer production; this time working with a group of children from all years making the art and scenery and practicing lines and choreography.

Although challenging at times, I found this work extremely rewarding. It sparked a passion for working with people, especial after seeing the progress that could be made in just one week, how the parents were supported and involved and seeing how much good the school could do.

My strong mathematical background has given me problem solving and logical skills I feel will be essential for nursing, as well as giving me a good understanding of the mathematics involved in nursing.

Further Maths and Physics taught me to apply a range of methods to solve problems with no obvious solution, and to apply mathematical and logical techniques to everyday problems.

I also study history, giving me analytical and essay writing skills often involved in a nursing degree, and have learned to draw conclusions from many different ideas and interpretations. This could help me to get to the bottom of a patient's problems and will be especially useful whilst working in mental health.

I practice yoga twice a week, and on Saturdays I work at my local Oxfam shop giving me a chance to meet many different people whilst having the satisfaction of knowing I am making a difference.

I am involved in my schools 'Amnesty International' group, helping to organise a party to celebrate "human week" as well as raising a general awareness of Amnesty International's work.

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Fri, 06/05/2011 - 23:11

Ppl like you get all the brians. I just get to say thanks for he answer.

well writen congrats

Wed, 23/11/2011 - 06:27

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Writing a Compelling Mental Health Nursing Personal Statement: A Guide

Considering a career in mental health nursing? This guide will help you craft a compelling personal statement that showcases your passion for the field and your understanding of the profession

Writing a personal statement for a mental health nursing course can seem daunting at first, but it's a great opportunity to showcase your passion for the field and your suitability for the course. To help you answer the questions posed in the prompt, we have put together some tips and advice:

• Why are you interested in Mental Health Nursing as a career?

This question is all about showcasing your passion for mental health nursing and what motivates you to pursue this career. Here are some points to consider:

• Start with a hook to grab the reader's attention. This could be a personal experience, a statistic, or a quote that resonates with you.
• Explain what drew you to mental health nursing. Was it a personal experience, an inspiring mentor, or a passion for helping others?
• Highlight the skills and qualities you possess that make you a good fit for the role of a mental health nurse. For example, empathy, resilience, and good communication skills are all essential qualities for mental health nurses.
• What is your understanding of the scope of the Mental Health Nursing profession?

This question is all about demonstrating your knowledge of the mental health nursing profession and the different roles you can undertake. Here are some points to consider:

• Research the different areas of mental health nursing, such as acute mental health services, community mental health services, and specialist services.
• Use the Nursing and Midwifery Council website to explore the professional values expected of a mental health nurse.
• Discuss the importance of working collaboratively with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors, social workers, and occupational therapists.
• Do you have any experience of observing or working in mental health?

Having firsthand experience of working in mental health can be invaluable when it comes to writing your personal statement. Here are some points to consider:

• Contact your local mental health services to see if you can spend some time observing or volunteering.
• If you are unable to secure work experience in a mental health setting, consider volunteering at a care home or community centre.
• Discuss what you learned from your experience and how it has influenced your decision to pursue mental health nursing.
• What do you know about the National Health Service (NHS) and what do you understand about the Values that are embedded in the NHS Constitution?

This question is all about demonstrating your understanding of the NHS and the values that underpin it. Here are some points to consider:

• Research the history of the NHS and its role in providing healthcare to the UK population.
• Explore the NHS Constitution and the values it embodies, such as respect, compassion, and professionalism.
• Use examples from your own experiences to demonstrate how you embody these values.
• What interests, hobbies, or other experiences have you gained prior to your application to the University of Hertfordshire?

This question is all about showcasing your personality and demonstrating how you have developed transferable skills that will be useful in your studies and future career. Here are some points to consider:

• Discuss your interests and hobbies and how they have developed your skills and qualities. For example, playing team sports may have developed your teamwork skills.
• Talk about any volunteering or work experience you have undertaken and how it has developed your skills and influenced your career goals.
• Discuss any achievements you are proud of, such as academic awards or personal accomplishments.

If you're considering applying for a mental health nursing program, a strong

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Mental Health Nursing Personal Statement Examples

Below are Mental Health Nursing Personal Statements examples . Hope it will help you write your UCAS personal statement for the university.

Mental Health Nursing Personal Statement

During my undergraduate studies in Physics, I found myself volunteering with the West London Mental Health NHS Trust. Here, I had the opportunity to apply my theoretical knowledge in a practical support role in a rehabilitation unit for mental health patients. I had always been interested in the workings of the mind, and this experience solidified my passion for the field.

Since 2009, I have worked extensively in caring services, specifically in mental health contexts. Through these experiences, I have gained valuable knowledge and skills in working with patients who have a range of mental health problems. I am now certain that I want to pursue a career in this field and believe that the Postgraduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing will enhance my knowledge and prepare me for my future career.

After completing my undergraduate degree, I pursued a Master’s degree in Health Psychology. This academic foundation has provided me with a solid understanding of psychological problems. For my dissertations, I explored the effects of stress on health behaviours and self-esteem in university students and predictors of body image dissatisfaction, specifically the contribution of perfectionism and socio-cultural pressure to be thin.

Nursing for those with mental health problems requires more than academic knowledge; it also calls for practical skills, quick thinking, effective communication, and above all, human empathy. The opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of those who are often locked into severe psychological conditions offers the prospect of true personal and professional fulfilment.

My early voluntary work brought me into contact with people whose mental health problems made it difficult for them to integrate into the community and the world of employment, as well as introduced me to the way the clinical team worked. In addition to my voluntary work, I also worked for Marie Stopes International as a Healthcare Assistant, where I gained experience in clinical procedures and learnt about the need for a tactful and sensitive approach to patients and the importance of working within the framework of a medical team.

Since completing my Master’s degree, I have worked for East London NHS Foundation in the Mental Health Division, first as a Social Therapist and currently as an Assistant Practitioner. In my current role, I build beneficial and therapeutic relationships with adults with acute and chronic mental health problems, devise the most appropriate intervention procedures for their welfare, and provide vocational and employment support alongside activities and group work.

I assist the Psychologist and the Occupational Therapist with group therapy sessions and activities to promote anger management and relaxation. I also work with the nursing staff in developing treatment packages to suit individual needs and encourage patients to take responsibility for their own recovery. I sometimes work with young people where good communication skills are essential in building positive and therapeutic relationships.

My substantial experience in the treatment of the mentally ill has left me with no doubt that I can make a difference in people’s lives, particularly in the lives of those who are so sadly disabled by their conditions. However, I am also aware of the challenges of this work and the importance of maintaining a sense of perspective to provide productive care. I am hard-working, enthusiastic about my career, and possess strong analytical skills. I work well under pressure and enjoy being part of a clinical team. I am committed to my goal and believe I have the necessary qualities to become a successful Mental Health Nurse.

Read other Nursing Personal Statement Examples

Band 5 Mental Health Nurse Personal Statement Example

My ambition to become a mental health nurse stems from my own experiences of enduring mental health conditions since childhood. Going through various treatments has given me insight into managing mental health issues and supporting others with conditions like dementia, schizophrenia, anxiety and depression, which I have encountered through volunteer and work experience.

Studying English Language and Health and Social Care has provided me with biological, psychological and practical knowledge about speech, language and dementia. Role-playing and work experience at a care home allowed me to assist dementia patients using visual aids to help them remember their interests and loved ones. A report on dementia and studying psychology and the nervous system gave me a theoretical understanding.

Volunteering at a centre for people with physical and mental disabilities has allowed me to gain experience in art therapy, music therapy, life skills and physiotherapy. I achieved a Level 6 qualification in horse riding instruction and have a Level 1 certificate in British Sign Language to assist non-verbal service users. Work experience at a solicitor’s firm handling Power of Attorney cases showed me the legal aspects of mental health.

I have completed emergency first aid at work and served on my college’s Student Union, organising charity events and promoting equality. I have written for the college magazine.

I want to professionally learn how to manage mental health and understand biological theories. After graduating, I hope to pursue clinical research, applying the research methods from my sociology course in a sociolinguistic project.

Despite progress, the stigmatisation of mental health persists. As a nurse, I would advocate for patients, support the vulnerable and treat all equally. My course has given me communication, reflection and basic medical skills to meet nursing demands.

A 100-hour placement at a supported living centre gave me insight into schizophrenia and person-centred care. I learned the importance of medication management, confidentiality and multidisciplinary teamwork. Researching recent guidelines like No Health Without Mental Health highlighted the need to consider physical and mental health together. Outside studying, I enjoy exercise and volunteering. I hope to work in community mental health, using my experience and commitment to person-centred care to aid recovery. My skills, knowledge and determination will help me become a successful mental health nurse.

This personal statement highlights the key relevant areas for a Band 5 mental health nurse application – your experiences, skills, knowledge, dedication and career ambitions. The content and structure are coherent while keeping within the specified word count. Please let me know if you would like me to clarify or expand on any part of this revised personal statement further.

How To Write A Personal Statement For Mental Health Nursing

If the examples are not enough for you, here are some tips and steps on how to write a personal statement for a Mental Health Nursing course. 

• Focus on your relevant experience . Highlight your experience in health care, mental health care, or roles supporting vulnerable groups. Discuss what you learned and how it motivates you to become a mental health nurse.
• Discuss your key skills . Emphasise skills like communication, compassion, patience, teamwork, and decision-making. Provide examples of where you have demonstrated these skills. Explain how these skills will make you a good mental health nurse.
• Show your passion for nursing . Express your genuine interest and passion for mental health nursing. Discuss why you want to pursue this career path, your desire to help vulnerable people, your interest in health care, etc. Your passion and motivation should shine through.
• Outline your career goals . Discuss your short and long-term career goals and how the mental health nursing programme will enable you to achieve them. Explain how you hope to progress, e.g. taking additional courses or management roles. This shows your motivation and enthusiasm.
• Explain why you’re a strong candidate . Summarise your key qualities, skills, experiences and knowledge that make you an excellent candidate for the mental health nursing programme. Reiterate your passion for the role. With preparation and hard work, convey your potential to become an accomplished mental health nurse.
• Review and proofread. Ask others to review your personal statement and provide feedback. Edit and proofread thoroughly. Double-check for any errors before submitting. Your personal statement represents you, so make sure it is compelling and clear, concise, and error-free.
• Be authentic . Most importantly, be genuine in your personal statement. Mental health nursing requires strong interpersonal qualities. Let your true motivations, passion, and personality shine through in your writing. Admissions staff will be able to see your authenticity.

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