So, the interview invite says I can take my spouse with me for the dinner. I have a little child and wondering if I should take him too or leave the spouse with the child...It seems like I will have to go alone. Or should I ask the coordinator?
Is it ok to get a to go order on the school's dime for the SO?
No. Would you do this at a job interview? Please.
Is it appropriate to bring a significant other if a program invites them to come with you to the dinner?
Is it appropriate to bring a significant other if a program invites them to come with you to the dinner?
If they say it is open to SO's then it is open to SO's.
I would find it too hard to concentrate on my own behavior during the event if I was also having to keep tabs on an SO and make sure they aren't revealing some personality flaws I have to my potential future colleagues.
Precisely. You want to control the situation as much as possible and leave there having put your best foot forward. Sometimes having a SO who is on the same page can help, but most of the time people have picked SOs for reasons other than their ability to play wingman/woman in a job interview dinner setting. Just be aware you aren't bringing a date to the event, you are bringing an asset/liability. Many thus choose to go it alone and exercise maximum control over the situation. There will be plenty of events you can bring your SO to once you are in.