Is taking notes during residency interview info sessions unacceptable?

[NeuroHopeful2026]

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Hi everyone, M4 and current residency applicant here. I've been really upset since seeing a post last week on Reddit where a current resident talked about an applicant being ranked low after interview day due to the PD seeing reflections of lights on their glasses during the presentation portion of the virtual interview and assuming they were on social media. I frequently take notes during the presentation and go between tabs, and although I don't have glasses I've definitely noticed the light changing on my face as I switch screens. I've already done the majority of my interviews, so although I won't take notes for the remaining ones I can't change what I've done for previous interviews. So I wanted to ask residents, attendings, or anyone else involved in interviews/ranking: are PDs, PCs, and/or other faculty scrutinizing our faces during the presentation portion of interview day at your program? Would my behavior be cause to rank an applicant lower at your program? TIA

 

[ThoracicGuy]

I wouldn't have my phone out during an interview. If you want to take some notes on paper, that would probably be fine. Don't give them any excuse to think that you aren't involved and interested in the process.