Career Planning for HF's

Please ignore my ignorance but I wanted to inquire about "long-term career planning in HF's". For reference I am in Europe (if this matters).

The HF scene is definitely weaker in Europe compared to the US and mostly centered around London and Switzerland. Even larger funds have generally much smaller offices in Europe than the US and thus significantly lower headcount.

With this as a backdrop, how should you start your career.

• Is it better work in IB and move to  PE and later go for a HF? (I assume much more competition with similar profiles but all doors are open (activist, macro, L/S-Equity)
• Is it better to work in Equity Research first and then after 3-5 years go for a HF role? (Showcases interest in equities potentially lowers exit options to macro, event and activist roles?
• How about starting in a HF? Leaving quant roles aside, there are probably less then 5 programs available in Europe. I understand that these show early on that you are interested in HF but the shops offering these opportunities are at least on this forum not as "glamorous" as other HF.  (Potentially lowers exit roles at some funds (e.g. Elliott, TCI, Tiger Cubs who mostly hired former bankers???)

Leaving the glamorous part aside, because I personally think for a HF, the team, your PM, fund performance and AUM/per Head, career trajectory matters more, how would you start your career if you look to stay inside the space for the long term (>10 years min.)? 

 Again please ignore my ignorance and dont bash me if my assumptions are inaccurate. Looking for advise only and not a debate :). Have a happy weekend