Should I use the HBS open essay for multiple purposes?

[HeyArnold]

I've read that the open essay is a good place to confront weaknesses in your application.

My three weaknesses I'd want to explain are:
1) Why I don't have my current direct super visor as a recommender (she's brand new)
2) Out of my 730 GMAT score, why is my quant score so low? (Q45 V46)
3) Why I don't have substantial EC leadership?

What are the thoughts out there? Experts?

thanks!

[Jon@Admissionado]

Hello sir. You certainly CAN address multiple things in your Aditional essay.
whether you should address these specific things is another matter.
To answer your specific questions:
1) Why I don't have my current direct super visor as a recommender (she's brand new)
Good idea! Run with it.

2) Out of my 730 GMAT score, why is my quant score so low? (Q45 V46)
I don't think it's necessary. Yes, people often have higher quant and lower verbal. But you have a perfectly balanced score.

3) Why I don't have substantial EC leadership?
Not a good idea. It's far better to show as much leadership as you can in your essays and not bring this to their attention.

Hope this helps!

[FutureWorks]

Hi,

Do mention to the adcom regarding the new supervisor bit you should be fine. EC leadership is usually something that most of the candidates highlight. If you can't highlight it than bringing it to their notice won't do anything substantial either.
All the best�

[HeyArnold]

Thanks guys,

Any thoughts on the fact that I took the GMAT 3 times? Is this something that will need explaining?

[bizschoolprep]

Thanks guys,

Any thoughts on the fact that I took the GMAT 3 times? Is this something that will need explaining?

No. Business school will take the best score. Moreover, the more explaining you will do, the more eyebrows you will raise. Rather than trying to fill the optional essay to the word limit, use it succintly and to the point.