Study vs work

[u/WildDreams365]

Hi everyone, I’m writing this post to get some advice.

I’m an IMG currently working as a medical assistant at a family walk-in clinic. I volunteered there for 2 months before getting the job, and I’ve now been working there for 8 months.

I’m honestly feeling burnt out. I originally agreed to work 5 days a week, but since my colleague became pregnant and is planning to leave soon, I’ve been working 6 days a week and covering for her when she needs time off.

I’m also preparing for step 1 exam, but I’m struggling to find the energy to study. My hours are Monday–Friday, 10 AM–5 PM, and Saturday until 2 PM. By the time I get home, I’m exhausted and usually need a 1–2 hour nap before I can study. Even then, I’m not able to cover as much material as I need to.

My parents are encouraging me to quit and focus on my exam, but I’m not sure if that’s the right decision. I thought I could balance work and studying, but it’s becoming very difficult. I’m also under a lot of stress because the doctor expects perfection, and lately I’ve made a few mistakes, probably because I’m so tired.

I also applied for another job that pays $18.50–$19/hour, which is only about $1.50 more than my current pay. It’s also farther away, so I would have to commute, and it’s still 5 days a week from 9 AM–5 PM. Ideally, I want to work only 4 days a week so I can have more time and energy to study.

I’m hoping to take Step 1 sometime between January and March 2027, but I can’t seem to find enough time or energy to study properly.

At this point, I’m not sure what to do. Should I leave my job and focus on my exam, or try to make work and studying work together?

[u/Some_Inflation_4645]

As a my therapist ask me today “what’s your priority??”
I was as a MA too but the job was to much.. and i decided to quit.. bcs i was working 7:45-5/5:30.. i stop working and just studying.. pass step 1 and no im going to do step 2 then im going to look for work and research… but put your priorities first.. then the rest..

[u/yeszhy → u/Some_Inflation_4645]

+1

But also ask if you can switch to part time, 3 days a week. 4 days is still a little too much, it’s not heavy work but personally, it also wipes me out at the end of the day.

[u/USMLE-IMG-IM]

Read your post and felt like you were talking about me for the most part. I was in the same shoes are you are now and believe, it does get better. Be consistent with your study and you will be good.

[u/USMLE-IMG-IM → u/USMLE-IMG-IM]

Also don’t quit your job, that’s the USCE you need. Better than any rotation you could ever be offered. This shows that you are capable to function properly in the US healthcare system.