How to handle note cards during college interviews?

Is it considered unprofessional to use note cards during a college interview? I want to make sure I stay on track and remember key points, but I don't want to come off as unprepared or too rehearsed.

While it's good to have your thoughts organized, in most cases, it's best not to bring note cards to a college interview. There's a couple reasons for this:

1. Fluidity: College interviews tend to be more conversational and less formal than job interviews. It's important that the conversation flow naturally, and note cards might disrupt this.

2. Memory: If you frequently consult your note cards, it might give off the impression that you have a poor memory or are overly reliant on pre-prepared answers.

3. Preparation: While using note cards to prepare for your interview is an excellent idea, bringing them to the interview may actually make you seem less prepared, as it could suggest that you haven't internalized your own achievements and experiences.

That being said, it's fine to jot down some important points on a small piece of paper or in a small notebook and glance at it before your interview begins or during a bathroom or water break. Also, don't be afraid to take a moment to gather your thoughts before answering a question - you don't need to respond immediately, and taking your time can actually show maturity, by demonstrating your commitment to providing a thorough, thoughtful answer.

Remember, your interview is not a test. It's more about showing your personality, your interest in the college, and the unique perspectives you could bring to the student body. If you're truly passionate about the college and genuine in presenting your experiences and aspirations, your interviewer will pick up on this. Practice conversations about your achievements, interests, and why you're interested in the college beforehand. This should help you internalize the key points you want to make without having to rely on note cards.

To increase your confidence and avoid needing to rely on notecards, you may find this blog post from CollegeVine helpful, which contains a list of common interview questions, as well as guidance on how to tackle them and even strong sample responses: https://blog.collegevine.com/15-major-college-interview-questions-to-prepare-for/. Good luck!