HEC Paris MBA Essays
- Goalisb
- Sep 25
- 18 min read
Table of Contents
Introduction
The HEC Paris MBA Essays represent a critical component of the application process, offering candidates the opportunity to articulate their aspirations, experiences, and suitability for this prestigious program. Compelling MBA essays requires thoughtful reflection and effective communication as candidates share their career objectives, personal achievements, and unique perspectives. These essays serve as a lens through which the Admissions Committee gains insight into an applicant's character and potential contributions to the HEC Paris MBA community. Understanding the nuances of MBA essay writing, drawing inspiration from MBA essay examples, and seeking guidance from a trusted MBA essay writing service in India or an MBA essay review service can be invaluable in pursuing a successful application.
Crafting essays that resonate with HEC Paris demands strategy and clarity. GOALisB, a trusted MBA admissions consulting service in India, helps applicants refine their career goals and essays to stand out globally. Contact us.
Essay 1: Career Goals MBA Essay
Essay Analysis
The essay is a part of an MBA application, highlighting the applicant's aspirations and reasons for pursuing an MBA.
The applicant expresses a strong desire to transition from the finance industry to the technology sector, emphasising the dynamic nature of technology.
They highlight their finance and business background as assets for success in the technology industry.
The applicant mentions HEC's MBA program, emphasizing its experiential learning and case-based instruction, as well as its extensive network and partnerships.
The essay showcases confidence in the HEC MBA program's ability to provide the necessary tools and support for a successful career transition.
Overall, the essay effectively conveys the applicant's career goals, alignment with HEC's program, and confidence in its potential to facilitate their career aspirations in the technology sector.
This type of essay is essential in MBA applications, showcasing an applicant's motivations and how a specific program aligns with their career objectives. It's a critical component of the evaluation process, demonstrating the applicant's fit for the program and their potential contributions. Applicants often seek guidance from MBA essay writing services in India and rely on MBA essay examples to craft compelling narratives. GoalisB is the best solution to craft your MBA essays better. Get in touch with us.
Your career goals essay is the foundation of your application. GOALisB consultants work closely with applicants to frame realistic yet ambitious short-term and long-term goals aligned with HEC Paris’ values. Get a free consultation.
Essay 2: MBA Essays on Most Significant Life Achievements
Essay Analysis
The essay recounts a significant life achievement: completing an undergraduate degree in electrical engineering.
It highlights the challenges, emphasizing hard work, determination, and personal sacrifices.
The essay underscores the belief in achieving goals through grit and persistence.
The narrative portrays the accomplishment as a source of self-assurance and a foundation for career success.
This essay effectively communicates a personal achievement story, showcasing determination and its transformative impact.
Not sure which achievement to highlight in your essays? GOALisB provides personalized brainstorming sessions to identify stories that best reflect your leadership, resilience, and impact. Book a one-to-one session
Essay 3: MBA Essays on a Completely different lifestyle from the current one
Essay Analysis
This essay explores the author's alternate life choice as a professional musician.
The essay vividly portrays the author's deep passion for music from an early age.
It envisions a life filled with global tours and performances at renowned venues.
This alternate life is described as a dream offering profound fulfilment and positive impact opportunities.
While not a traditional MBA essay, it highlights the author's creativity and commitment to meaningful pursuits.
Overall, it showcases the author's unique perspective and aspirations.
Creative prompts like these test your originality. GOALisB guides you to strike the right balance between personal storytelling and professional depth, ensuring your essays leave a lasting impression. Schedule a call.
Essay 4: Choose Either One
Visiting a monument:
Essay Analysis
The essay recommends visiting the Grand Canyon in northern Arizona as a top choice for first-time visitors to the United States.
It highlights the Grand Canyon's breathtaking natural beauty, emphasizing its vastness and stunning vistas.
The essay underscores the variety of activities available at the Grand Canyon, such as hiking, scenic lookouts, and adventurous river rafting, catering to diverse interests.
The essay effectively promotes the Grand Canyon as a must-visit destination for its natural splendour and engaging activities, making it an appealing choice for tourists.
2. Books, movies or plays having an international success that you believe undeserved. Choose an example and analyse it.
Essay Analysis
The essay critically analyses "Fifty Shades of Grey" by E.L. James.
The author believes that the novel received more attention than it deserves.
The analysis highlights concerns about the quality of writing and the shallowness of characters in the book.
It also mentions the controversy surrounding the portrayal of relationships in the novel, arguing that it glamorises abusive behavior and perpetuates damaging stereotypes.
The essay acknowledges the book's popularity but concludes that its success is unjustified due to its perceived poor quality and potentially harmful content.
3. What figure do you most admire and why? You may choose from any field (arts, literature, politics, business, etc.).
Essay Analysis
The essay explores a discussion on Mahatma Gandhi as the author's most inspirational figure.
The MBA essay praises his leadership, commitment to peace, and role in India's struggle for independence.
The essay highlights Gandhi's mastery of nonviolent resistance and his use of peaceful strategies.
Gandhi's spiritual essence and belief in the inherent goodness of people are mentioned.
The essay emphasises his messages of love, compassion, and their global impact.
The author admires Gandhi's inspiring ability and unwavering commitment to peace and justice.
HEC Paris MBA Essay Samples
Sample MBA Essay on Professional Objective
I'm drawn to the HEC MBA program as the next significant step in my career journey. In recent years, I've dedicated myself to the finance industry, diligently amassing a reservoir of knowledge and hands-on experience. My career ambition revolves around attaining a leadership position in the ever-dynamic domain of the technology industry. The rapid evolution and ever-changing nature of this sector have always captivated me. My finance and business background will be a valuable asset in this vibrant environment.
HEC's MBA program, emphasising experiential learning and case-based instruction, promises to be pivotal in my pursuit of this goal. Furthermore, the program's extensive network of accomplished alumni and strategic partnerships with industry leaders will open doors to valuable connections, potential employers, and hands-on experience.
The HEC MBA program will provide me with the requisite tools and unwavering support to achieve my professional aspirations and embark on a career in technology.
MBA Essay Sample on Most Significant Life Achievements:
Throughout my life, I've achieved several significant milestones, yet one stands out prominently: completing my undergraduate degree in electrical engineering.
Earning an engineering degree is a substantial accomplishment that demands abundant hard work, unwavering determination, and personal sacrifices. The delicate juggling of managing a rigorous coursework schedule alongside a full-time job and other responsibilities was indeed challenging. There were moments when the weight of it all left me feeling overwhelmed, causing me to doubt my capacity to endure.
However, I remained steadfast in my pursuit and, eventually, graduated with honours, proudly holding my degree in electrical engineering. This accomplishment is a testament to my unwavering dedication and determination, reinforcing my belief that any goal can be realised with grit and persistence.
This accomplishment has unlocked many opportunities, enriching my professional and personal life. Furthermore, the program's extensive network of accomplished alumni and strategic partnerships with industry leaders will open doors to valuable connections, potential employers, and hands-on experience.
MBA Essay Sample:
Leadership and ethics are inextricably linked in the business realm, and my career has provided me with ample opportunities to navigate these intricacies.
One notable situation unfolded during my tenure as a team leader at a prominent technology company. I was entrusted with overseeing a team of software engineers, and within this team, one member consistently delivered subpar work. This recurring issue led to delays and created challenges for the entire team.
Addressing this situation was imperative, yet it posed a daunting dilemma. I hesitated to confront the underperforming team member directly, fearing it might strain our working relationship and hurt their feelings.
I emphasised that their work fell short of the expected standard and delineated precise steps they could take to improve. Though the conversation was challenging, it was an imperative one. While the team member initially expressed discontent, they eventually acknowledged their shortcomings and committed to rectifying them. Over the subsequent weeks, their performance exhibited remarkable improvement, culminating in our team completing the project on schedule and within the stipulated budget.
This experience imparted invaluable lessons about leadership and ethics in the business domain. It underscored the significance of addressing difficult issues head-on, even when discomfort looms.
In sum, this encounter left an indelible mark on my leadership style, endowing me with enhanced confidence and a steadfast commitment to ethical principles when navigating challenging circumstances in the professional arena.
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MBA Essay Sample on a completely different lifestyle from the current one:
If asked to live a different life, I'd wholeheartedly pursue my passion for music, transforming into a professional musician. Music has been an enduring and unwavering companion throughout my existence, with the guitar and my vocals serving as loyal partners since my earliest memories.
In this alternate reality, every day would revolve around the art of crafting and delivering music.
I'd embark on global tours, taking my musical talents to audiences of all sizes and backgrounds. Collaborating with other gifted musicians, we'd create enchanting and inspirational melodies.
Furthermore, I'd use my musical platform to advocate for significant causes, including environmental conservation and social justice. Through my music, I seek to motivate and empower others, striving to impact the world positively.
This alternate life would be a realised dream, allowing me to pursue my passion for music while contributing to meaningful change. It would undoubtedly depart from my life, offering profound fulfilment and rewards.
HEC Paris admissions are highly competitive. Get assistance from GOALisB consultants for MBA essay reviews, mock interviews, and application strategy to help you secure your place in Europe’s top MBA program.
Essay 5: Choose Either One of the topics from below:
HEC Paris MBA Essay topic about What landmark or location would you recommend to a newcomer exploring your nation or city for the first time, and what makes it a must-visit destination?
As a proud resident of the United States, I enthusiastically recommend that first-time visitors to our nation embark on an exploration of the awe-inspiring wonder known as the Grand Canyon in northern Arizona. The Grand Canyon is one of the most breathtaking natural marvels globally, leaving all who witness it in amazement.
This colossal canyon has been meticulously carved by the meandering Colorado River over countless millennia, stretching an impressive 277 miles with depths plunging to an astonishing 6,000 feet. Its vastness and stunning beauty make it an absolute must-visit for anyone touring the United States.
An array of hiking trails and scenic lookout points beckon exploration, providing numerous opportunities to immerse oneself in the canyon's captivating vistas. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, thrilling river rafting expeditions and other adrenaline-pumping activities are readily available, promising a unique and exhilarating encounter with this natural wonder.
HEC MBA Essay Topic about Evaluate a specific book, film, or play that has achieved global acclaim, in your opinion, without merit. Analyze the chosen example.
In my belief, one novel called Fifty Shades of Grey got a little more attention than it actually deserves. The writer is E.L. James, and I found his writing poor and the characters very shallow. The book has some unhealthy portrayals of relationships as well.
Anastasia Steele is the novel's main character, and the story centres around her involvement in a BDSM relationship with a rich businessman, Christian Grey. Many critics have stated that the novel lacks literary merit and the writing is flat with extremely uninteresting characters.
Furthermore, the novel has faced substantial criticism for its portrayal of relationships. Arguments suggest that it glamorises abusive behaviour and perpetuates damaging stereotypes about women. The widespread popularity of the novel has triggered strong opposition from advocacy groups, which have voiced concerns regarding its potential influence on young readers.
In conclusion, the international success of 'Fifty Shades of Grey' is unjustified due to its poor quality and content that could be harmful. While it may have garnered popularity, it is not a work that merits celebration or widespread readership.
HEC Paris MBA Essay topic about Whom do you hold in the highest regard, and what is the reason behind your admiration? Your choice can be from any domain, including the arts, literature, politics, business, etc.
My most inspirational figure is Mahatma Gandhi. He is well known as a spiritual and political leader of India. We all are aware of his works and struggle towards independent India. I admire his great leadership, uncompromising commitment to peace and how he moved thousands of people to stick to their beliefs and roots. Gandhi was a true master of nonviolent resistance, employing peaceful strategies such as boycotts and civil disobedience to challenge the oppressive British rule in India.
Beyond his political activism, Gandhi possessed a deep spiritual essence, firmly believing in the inherent goodness of all people and their entitlement to respect and dignity. He preached messages of love and compassion, profoundly inspiring countless individuals worldwide who sought to follow his remarkable example.
I deeply admire Gandhi for his extraordinary ability to lead and inspire others, as well as for his unwavering commitment to the principles of peace and justice. He is a genuine role model and a source of inspiration for people throughout the globe.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to start writing MBA essays?
Start MBA essays by reflecting on your goals, experiences, and values, then build a clear structure with an engaging personal story that aligns with the school’s expectations.
Detailed Answer: The best way to start writing MBA essays is with self-reflection. Admissions committees want authenticity and clarity, so the process begins by mapping your personal, academic, and professional journey. Identify your short-term goals, long-term goals, and the motivation behind pursuing an MBA. From there, select defining experiences—career achievements, leadership challenges, or personal growth moments—that demonstrate fit with the program.
A step-by-step approach to starting MBA essays:
Self-Reflection: Write down your career goals, strengths, weaknesses, leadership experiences, and values.
School Research: Understand the school’s culture, curriculum, and leadership values to align your narrative.
Story Brainstorming: Gather impactful professional and personal stories that highlight leadership, teamwork, and resilience.
Outline Before Writing: Create a structured flow—introduction (hook or story), body (achievements, goals), and conclusion (why MBA, why this school).
Draft with Authenticity: Use simple, clear language that reflects your personality. Avoid jargon and exaggeration.
Remember, the opening paragraph sets the tone—start with a concise, vivid story or reflection instead of generic statements. Strong MBA essays balance personal depth with professional ambition.
Is it hard to get into HEC Paris MBA?
Yes, admission to the HEC Paris MBA is highly competitive with an acceptance rate of ~18%–20%, requiring strong academics, GMAT/GRE scores, and leadership experience.
Detailed Answer: Getting into the HEC Paris MBA is considered challenging due to its selective admissions process and international reputation as one of Europe’s top business schools. The acceptance rate is estimated at 18%–20%, which means only about 1 in 5 applicants are admitted.
Key factors that make HEC Paris MBA admissions competitive:
Academic Profile: A strong undergraduate degree and solid GPA are expected.
Test Scores: Competitive GMAT/GRE scores (typically GMAT 690–710+) strengthen the application.
Professional Experience: Applicants should have a minimum of 2 years of professional work experience with evidence of leadership, career progression, and international exposure.
Personal Fit: HEC values diversity, global outlook, and applicants who align with its focus on leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Essays & Interviews: Essays must clearly articulate career goals and why HEC is the right fit. The two-interview process with alumni is rigorous and evaluates both professional and personal qualities.
In short, admission is difficult but achievable for candidates who combine strong academic metrics, impactful professional experience, and a compelling personal narrative.
How to write an MBA scholarship essay?
Write an MBA scholarship essay by highlighting financial need, leadership impact, career goals, and fit with the school, while using clear personal stories to show why you deserve funding.
Detailed Answer: An MBA scholarship essay is not only about requesting financial aid—it’s about proving your value to the program and its community. Successful essays strike a balance between demonstrating merit, financial need, and long-term impact.
Step-by-step approach to writing a strong MBA scholarship essay:
Understand the Scholarship Criteria: Some scholarships are merit-based (academic excellence, leadership, impact), while others are need-based (financial circumstances).
Start with a Personal Hook: Open with a defining story or challenge that sets the context for your financial need or leadership journey.
Highlight Achievements and Impact: Show how your professional and personal contributions align with the school’s values and why you are a worthy investment.
Connect to Career Goals: Explain how the MBA will help you achieve specific short- and long-term goals, reinforcing your potential as a future leader.
Be Clear About Financial Need (if applicable): If it’s a need-based scholarship, be transparent about your situation without sounding overly dramatic.
Show Fit with the School: Tie your aspirations to the school’s mission, community, or unique strengths.
Close with Gratitude and Vision: End by reaffirming how the scholarship will enable you to create positive impact in business and society.
Example themes that work well:
Leadership in challenging environments
Overcoming financial or personal hardships
Global outlook and community engagement
Commitment to innovation, sustainability, or entrepreneurship
In essence, a winning MBA scholarship essay combines personal storytelling, professional credibility, and alignment with the scholarship’s purpose.
How to write a good 500-word scholarship essay?
To write a strong 500-word scholarship essay, focus on one central story, link it to your goals, and align it with the scholarship’s values, keeping the structure clear and concise.
Detailed Answer: A 500-word scholarship essay is short, so clarity and focus are essential. Unlike longer MBA application essays, here you need to distill your story into one powerful narrative that demonstrates merit, need, and impact.
Step-by-step guide for a 500-word scholarship essay:
Plan the Structure (100–150 words each section):
Introduction (Hook): Open with a personal story, challenge, or defining moment that reflects your motivation.
Body (Achievements & Goals): Highlight key academic/professional accomplishments, leadership examples, and career goals.
Fit & Need: Explain why you need the scholarship (financial or merit-based) and how it aligns with your journey.
Conclusion (Vision): End with gratitude and a forward-looking statement about the impact you will create.
Be Selective with Stories: Choose one or two examples that best show your leadership, resilience, or values. Avoid trying to cover your entire life.
Show Alignment with the Scholarship: If it’s for leadership, emphasize impact; if for diversity, highlight your unique perspective.
Keep Language Tight: Use simple, active sentences. Every line should serve your central message.
Polish & Edit: With just 500 words, revise multiple times to remove repetition, jargon, or unnecessary detail.
Pro Tip: A strong 500-word essay reads like a compelling mini-biography—personal, purposeful, and aligned with the scholarship’s mission.
Is HEC Paris good for Indian students?
Yes, HEC Paris is very good for Indian students, offering strong placement in consulting and finance, a global alumni network, and diverse peer groups with 15–20% Indian representation.
Detailed Answer: HEC Paris is one of Europe’s most prestigious business schools and is highly regarded among Indian MBA aspirants. Its MBA program is well-suited for Indian students because of career outcomes, global exposure, and strong community presence.
Why HEC Paris is good for Indian students:
Career Opportunities: Many Indian graduates secure roles in consulting (McKinsey, BCG, Bain), finance (Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan), and tech leadership (Amazon, Google). France’s location in Europe also provides access to London, Germany, and emerging EU markets.
Indian Peer Network: Each cohort has 15–20% Indian students, one of the largest national groups, ensuring a supportive community.
Global Alumni Network: HEC’s 70,000+ alumni span 150+ countries, including a strong presence in India and Asia.
Scholarships: Indians are eligible for the HEC Paris Excellence Scholarship and external awards (e.g., Eiffel, Forté), which significantly reduce costs.
Cultural & Language Fit: While the MBA is taught in English, students can learn French to expand opportunities in continental Europe.
Post-MBA Salaries: Average post-MBA salary is €115,000–€120,000, with consulting and finance packages often higher.
For Indians aiming at global careers in consulting, finance, or entrepreneurship, HEC Paris is considered one of the top European MBA destinations along with INSEAD, LBS, and IESE.
Which is better HEC Paris or INSEAD?
INSEAD is better for a fast 10 month MBA program with global mobility, while HEC Paris is better for leadership depth, entrepreneurship, and a longer 16-month MBA—the choice depends on your career goals.
Detailed Answer: Both HEC Paris and INSEAD are world-class European MBA programs but they serve slightly different applicant profiles. The “better” choice depends on whether you value speed and global exposure (INSEAD) or leadership depth and career transition flexibility (HEC Paris).
Key Comparisons – HEC Paris vs INSEAD MBA:
Program Length:
HEC Paris: 16 months → allows for internships, career switching, and deeper immersion.
INSEAD: 10 months → faster return on investment, but no summer internship.
Class Profile:
HEC Paris- 235 students, 49 nationalities, average work experience 6 years.
INSEAD- 1,000 students, 110 nationalities, average work experience 6 years.
Strengths:
HEC Paris: Leadership development, entrepreneurship (HEC incubator), luxury & finance sector ties, strong alumni network in France & Europe.
INSEAD: Global mobility, consulting powerhouse (40–50% grads into MBB), campuses in France, Singapore, UAE.
Careers & Salaries:
HEC Paris: Average post-MBA salary $109,847, strong in Europe.
INSEAD: Average post-MBA salary EUR 108,500, strong in Europe & Asia.
Best Fit:
Choose INSEAD if you want the fastest possible MBA, a consulting career, or international exposure across continents.
Choose HEC Paris if you want time for an internship, deeper leadership training, and strong European/entrepreneurship ties.
In summary, INSEAD is the best “global fast-track MBA”, while HEC Paris is the best “leadership-focused European MBA”.
What is the average salary for HEC Paris MBA graduates?
For the HEC Paris MBA Class of 2024, the average salary was about US$109,847, with a median salary around US$100,125.
Detailed Answer: Here are more details and context around those numbers:
Placement rate: ~91% of the Class of 2023 had accepted job offers within three months of graduation.
Bonuses: In addition to base salary, many graduates get sign-on or performance bonuses. The average sign-on bonus was US$25,301 for 2024.
By sector: Salaries vary depending on industry. Consulting and finance sectors tend to pay above average. For example, finance graduates had an average salary of ~ US$115,767 in 2024.
By geography: Salaries also differ based on country/region of employment. Graduates who move to North America or the Middle East tend to get higher salaries compared to those staying in France.
How to write a good first sentence for an essay?
A good first sentence should grab attention with a story, question, or bold statement, while smoothly introducing the essay’s main theme.
Detailed Answer: The first sentence of an essay sets the tone, so it should be engaging, clear, and purposeful. A weak opening risks losing the reader, while a strong one creates curiosity and frames your narrative.
Effective strategies for opening an essay:
Start with a Story: Use a short, vivid moment from your life that connects to the essay’s theme. Example: “At 23, I was leading a team twice my age on a project that nearly failed.”
Ask a Thought-Provoking Question: Engage the reader’s curiosity. Example: “What does leadership look like when no one is watching?”
Use a Bold Statement or Claim: Confidently introduce your core message. Example: “Failure has been my greatest teacher.”
Begin with a Contrast or Surprise: Defy expectations to stand out. Example: “I never thought a rejection letter would be the turning point in my career.”
Tips for MBA and Scholarship Essays:
Keep it authentic and personal—avoid clichés like “Since childhood, I have always…”
Tie the opening directly to the essay’s central story or career goals.
Make sure it flows naturally into the second sentence instead of feeling gimmicky.
A powerful opening line hooks the reader emotionally while setting up the essay’s purpose, making them eager to learn more.
What should an MBA essay look like?
An MBA essay should be a clear, structured narrative with an engaging opening, evidence of leadership and impact, career goals, and a strong conclusion tailored to the school’s values.
Detailed Answer: An MBA essay is not just a personal statement—it is a strategic story about who you are, what drives you, and why an MBA is the right step. Admissions committees expect authenticity, clarity, and alignment with their program.
Typical MBA Essay Structure:
Introduction (Hook): Start with a compelling story, reflection, or challenge that sets the tone.
Body (Professional Journey & Leadership): Highlight career achievements, leadership experiences, teamwork, and personal growth.
Goals (Short- & Long-Term): Clearly articulate where you want to go post-MBA and in the long run.
Why MBA, Why This School: Show how the program’s curriculum, community, and values uniquely fit your goals.
Conclusion (Vision & Impact): End with a forward-looking statement about the impact you plan to make.
Key Features of a Good MBA Essay:
Personal yet Professional: Balances authentic storytelling with career-driven focus.
Specific, Not Generic: References concrete achievements and school-specific offerings.
Concise & Structured: Typically 400–600 words per essay, with logical flow.
Reflective: Goes beyond a résumé to reveal motivations, values, and lessons learned.
In essence, a strong MBA essay looks like a well-crafted leadership story—personal, purposeful, and tailored to demonstrate why you are a great fit for both the MBA program and its community.
How to get first in an essay writing competition?
To win an essay competition, choose a strong theme, craft a unique perspective, use clear structure, and write with creativity, depth, and flawless grammar.
Detailed Answer: Winning first place in an essay writing competition requires more than correct grammar—it’s about original thinking, compelling storytelling, and polished presentation.
Steps to write a winning competition essay:
Understand the Prompt: Read the topic carefully, noting keywords and hidden angles. Judges reward essays that answer the question fully and thoughtfully.
Choose a Strong Thesis: Develop a clear central idea or argument that stands out from generic responses.
Hook with the Introduction: Start with a powerful story, quote, or surprising fact to capture attention.
Build a Clear Structure:
Introduction (hook + thesis)
Body (2–3 well-developed arguments with evidence/examples)
Conclusion (memorable takeaway or call to action)
Add Creativity & Depth: Go beyond surface-level points—use personal insights, unique perspectives, or cross-disciplinary connections.
Use Strong Language: Vary sentence structure, avoid clichés, and keep tone confident yet natural.
Revise Ruthlessly: Edit for clarity, grammar, and word choice. Competitions are often won by essays with both great ideas and zero errors.
Practice Time Management (if timed): Allocate time for planning, writing, and revising to avoid rushed endings.
Winning Tip: Judges often look for essays that teach them something new, make them think differently, or move them emotionally. Combining intellectual depth with personal voice maximizes your chances.
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