Lost Graduate

Hi Guys, Its me again. In my last post I was considering joining a boutique hedge fund as an equity research analyst but I did not pass the second round of the interview. I attempted to ask where I was lacking or areas I could improve on but I never got a reply. Currently what's left on the table are 3 options: 1. Join big 4 audit, do CPA 2. Continue in search for corporate finance or equity research roles 3. Pursue my masters in Finance (I got the offer at Melbourne Business School)

More about myself: I'm a Singaporean graduate from the University of Melbourne. Although the accounting and finance program is ranked 12th worldwide by QS, Singaporeans tend to deem australian uni graduates as second tier compared to local grads. My overall grades average 74/100. (sounds like an excuse but I was juggling two jobs while doing full time studies). I also chose not to do honours as it will incur an additional year of cost. I completed CFA level 1 during the last sem of my undergrad studies and I have been searching for relevant roles since February.

Looking at the Singapore job market now, should I just take up the audit position for a safer and stable career pathway? Or should I look into the other two? Personally, I have a strong interest in Corp finance/Equity Research as I find the process of equity research and building models to be enjoyable and fulfilling through the value created. However, I am afraid that this would turn out to be a wild-goose chase as getting into these industries are heavily dependent on two factors: Prestige of schools and excellent grades, or connections. Can someone kindly provide advice on this matter?