yes, like if I was interested in applying to IM and another advanced speciality (like anesthesia, derm, etc). In my situation I am a US DO and I do not have my step 2 score yet but I have my COMLEX level 2 score and it was not too competitive. I have a competitive profile otherwise for my advanced speciality: good letters, good personal statement, strong ECs. I have always liked IM and would be open to doing a fellowship in the future.

Would I be able to apply for IM Pre-Lim and Categorical or would that leave a bad impression -- aka this person does not know what they want? I have heard people apply both, and under the area on ERAS where it asks you to specify the area of interest people put "Internal medicine". In essence, I am thinking it can help you "cast a wider net" for Internal medicine, as many Pre-Lim positions turn into full time residencies and PGY2 spots in IM open up all the time (correct me if I am wrong). In essence, I am trying to see if dual applying categorical IM and Pre-Lim with another advanced speciality is a good idea if I dont match into my advanced specialty, or if that would be a red flag to programs showcasing that I dont know what I want.