Bringing "Notes" To (Virtual) Interviews?

[TibiaOrNotTibia]

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Would it be considered unprofessional/unprepared/lazy to prepare some written questions and notes about a school and your interviewer during a virtual interview? I am interested in both of my interviewers' backgrounds, clinical work, and research, but find it difficult at times to remember some of the questions I wanted to ask them. For context, I would only reference these at the end when (and if) they ask me if I have any questions for them.

 

[Mr.Smile12]

Probably not. Ask your school.

 

[Butalbusaur]

Honestly, I have tried to ask questions that open up a conversation. For example, “What’s your favorite thing about X school, and what brought you here/keeps you here” or “If you had to leave and take one thing from this school to somewhere else, what would it be.” I think it helps me feel if I can also see myself there based on their answer.

Granted, most of my interviews have informational sessions and Q&A sessions built into the interview day where we can ask questions specifically about the curriculum and stuff.

I don’t think it would seem unprofessional. I will say it can be awkward if the person who interviews you knows nothing about the curriculum or certain resources that students have. That’s why I try to keep the questions fun/open-ended.

Just my 2 cents. 🙂

 

[PickaGodnPray]

The cons outweigh the pros if your interviewer finds out about the notes (and you would be surprised how I and others have been able to see them). Even if it is just for questions, it would be hard to know you didn't have notes for other things unless you explicitly showed them. Just try to remember the questions, you really won't have time for more than 1-2 anyways.