Ways to break into the buy-side

Hello everyone,

I have been pretty set on making it into the buy-side in AM/fundamental HF shops for some time, and figured that the best route would be to do either ER or IB as a stepping stone. My focus so far has been on ER, but recently have been wondering if there are any other ways that could work. Are there any routes that could land me directly to the buy-side, even at a smaller shop or less known bank or would going the traditional route make the most sense in the long run.

Additionally, if my plans fail and I don't make it into either ER or IB, how much lower are my chances from a few years in Corp Dev or an FP&A role as back-ups?

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