Should I keep my PCT job?

[peppathepig]

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Hey all, long story short, I got hired per diem as a PCT last month, which requires 2 shifts a month. I am also working full-time as a research assistant (which has a LOT of flexibility aka not limited to the strict 9AM-5PM and I work from home most days), but am also studying for MCAT (April test date). I already have a decent amount of clinical experience, which consists of volunteering as an EMT for 1.5 years (approx. 850 hours), and around 200 hours as a COVID-19 tester in a local town hospital. I was strongly advised to get some experience inside the hospital to get a better understanding of working with a healthcare team, which led me to work as a PCT. But here's the thing - I don't like the job at all (which is the biggest setback), and since I am on orientation, they are asking me to work 2-3 shifts per week, which is around 16-24 hours a week. During my interview I knew about taking on extra shifts to complete orientation, but my start date got pushed back several times because of logistical issues and I was okay with doing the extra shifts from when I was originally supposed to start since my PI was on leave/ it was the holidays at that time.

I'm applying this cycle, and I don't know what to do. Should I drop the job altogether? Do I even need the clinical experience inside the hospital? I appreciate all and any advice - thank you!! @Goro @LizzyM

 

[Nontrad_FL_LGBT]

I'd drop that job in a heartbeat tbh. Sounds like a complete waste of time with 1000 hours already under your belt, and actively harming your ability to study for the MCAT.

 

[Fluidity of Movement]

I think you've definitely "checked the box" for clinical experience. However, I would explore a bit what you really don't like about it, because you will certainly be spending a ton of time working inside a hospital, and a lot of things you dislike about PCT will probably still be relevant as a student / physician.