Brokerage to Equity Research or Portfolio Analysis

Background: Graduated with 4+1 MBA. Finance undergrad. Non-target (do many targets even offer 4+1's?) but surely a reputable undergrad institution. Recently began a rep position at a large firm that will enable acquiring brokerage licenses, 7/66, have already done the SIE and the material was introductory, to say the least. Planning to take the CFA level 1 this year for sure.

While it's obvious I do not have the easiest path into Equity Research or Portfolio Analysis (unsure which I prefer and am realistically open to either), I am curious if I am correct in the following assumptions:

• My entry level role, while not fully ideal, provides valuable industry experience.
• FINRA licenses are often required to qualify for many roles I eventually want to be in.
• CFA level 1 will help in being considered for a role, level 2 and 3 would obviously do so even further.

With that being said: Where, if at all, am I incorrect? What else, other than networking, could I be doing? Where is there considerable overlap between the CFA and Series 7? Where is there explicitly not, other than much of R&A? Any other tips/advice is also appreciated.

Thanks in advance.