MScF Or CFA® to break into ER?

About me

• BBA in Finance in 2018 from a non-target in Texas with a 3.4 GPA
• Have not yet taken the GMAT, but plan on it in early 2021
• Currently work in WM at a no name shop in NY (not Manhattan) where I spend half my time doing equity research for our US Equity Strategy and the other half in various roles on the WM side

I am trying to break into ER, but I have had little success through traditional methods i.e. networking with alumni and sending my resume into the black hole that is the online application system. My alumni network hasn't worked out due to the simple fact that almost nobody seems to have had interest in pursuing ER or really any FO role. I have been considering pursuing either an MSc in Finance at a larger university with a stronger alumni network on the street or taking the CFA® exam. My general thoughts are that the MSc would provide a larger ROI faster since the program I am considering is just 12 months and would give me access to an alumni network that has a mucher larger presence on the street.

Im just curious to hear the thoughts/adivce of anyone who has used either method to break into the industry. Thanks in advance.