I've had 2 interviews so far, and the guys I saw either took nothing, just a pen, or a leather portfolio with a notepad and pen in it. Honestly, I think the pad is useless. The schools usually provide all the information you need, and although some people took notes on stuff, I don't think it's all that important. I would suggest taking a pen in your pocket, if anything. I'm a female, so I brought a bag with me out of habit, but I really never used it, except when I pulled out a notecard with questions to ask during my interview. Good luck!