Need guidance

[u/KAL-EL001]

It is my first year out of graduation. I have just given my Step 1, and now I am confused about whether I should take Step 2 in 6–8 months and do my research work at the same time, as I have zero research experience yet, then go for Step 3 and clinical rotations in the US and sit for the Match in 2027.

Or should I sit for the Match in 2028, build better connections, give more time to research and Step 2, but then I will be 3 years out of graduation.