Applying to both preliminary and categorical at the same program?

[puzzled80]

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Hi,

I've read a few threads on a similar scenario but was not able to find the answer. I would really appreciate some help/advice! 🙂

Would applying to both the IM prelim and categorical spots at the same program be looked upon as unfavorable? I understand that if one is applying for IM as a backup, one should not apply for prelim and categorical at the same program as he/she may appear indecisive and insincere. Would the same hold for one applying to both IM prelim and categorical but has no intentions for other advanced programs?

Thank you!

 

[JPmamd09]

This was something I contemplated doing last year for geographic/family reasons (changed specialties though, so not the plan anymore). I talked with a few PD's about it, so this is just heresay. If aPD or WS happen to catch this thread they'd give a much more educated answer.

It seems to depend in part on your reasoning. Can I ask what your situation is that'd make you want to apply to both? I was also told that if your reasoning is legit that you should be completely open and honest about applying to both and why you're doing it. And I guess the danger in applying to prelim med or peds w/o a further training program arranged (you know, like anesthesia or derm or whatever) is that after that one year there's no guarantee they'll pick you up for categorical, so what do you do then?

Just my anecdotal advice from some PDs I talked to last year. Hope it's helpful.

 

[puzzled80]

Thanks, JP. Your comments definitely did help. I, like you, would like to stay within the state for geographic/family reason. I figured that it will be better to match a prelim program than nothing at all. Maybe it's not wise. I'll think about it again. 🙂

 

[JPmamd09]

Have you/do you feel comfortable talking to the PD about your situation? It seems like sometimes if they can put a face to the name on the app and if they know your story ahead of time it can be really helpful. Gotta love these geographic restrictions 😛 Good luck to you!

 

[puzzled80]

No, I have not. I am not sure if PDs would meet with potential IMG applicants.

 

[Winged Scapula]

The risk you run applying for both categorical and prelim IM at the same program is that someone catches it ad assumes that you are applying for another specialty (hence the need for the Prelim year) and that IM is not your first choice.

You need to make it clear somehow that you would rather take your chances on a Prelim IM position than be geographically displaced. I think that's a mistake as residency positions get tighter and tighter but if its one you're willing to take....

You might consider that if you don't get any categorical interviews in the area you are considering is to add Prelim applications before the deadline and/or bringing the topic up at any interviews. "I'm really interested in your program and would consider a Prelim position with the idea of proving myself to you should you not rank me for a Categorical position." If they encourage you, then go ahead and apply for their Prelim track and rank all Prelims below the Categorical.

 

[puzzled80]

Thanks for your advice, WS. I really appreciate it. I understand the risk and am reluctant to go down that route. But unfortunately, geographical restriction is my main issue.

By the way, I thought that a program will automatically know if one has applied to both prelim and categorical as the application will be reviewed by the same person. Have I misunderstood?

 

[NotAProgDirector]

Thanks for your advice, WS. I really appreciate it. I understand the risk and am reluctant to go down that route. But unfortunately, geographical restriction is my main issue.

By the way, I thought that a program will automatically know if one has applied to both prelim and categorical as the application will be reviewed by the same person. Have I misunderstood?

They will probably notice. ERAS will deliver a single electronic application for both tracks. Especially if you're selected to interview for the categorical track, when they review prelim apps they will see that you have already been invited.

If you stress that geography is key, it may not be a problem.

 

[Resuscitator]

hi puzzled80
as long as the PM and Cat programs are the same speciality (IM) then there is no problem and this will show the PD that you are incesting to join there residency whatever the offer was and this is a good point in your application. The PD will think that you are extremely interested. However if you applied to 2 diffferent specialities in the same hospital this will carry high risks on your application because they will get an idea that you are applying just to secure a position. Even if you applied to these 2 different specialities with a time gap let us say of 1 month, they can know since the office of postgraduate studies arrange every thing starting from the hotel, interview and residents dinner.
goodluck.

 

[puzzled80]

Thank you all for your comments. Really appreciate it.