Shareholder Advisory & Activism Defense

I know this topic has been brought up a few times, but it has been through the lens of someone who is already in IB or has the resume to get into IB. 

My question: What it would take for someone to get a role on one of the activism defense teams as a banker? My experience is 1.5 years as an associate (entry-level) on an IR/PR team which has handled some notable contested elections / mergers. We also handle shareholder proposals, etc. As I look to map my career, I see myself going to a banking team in order to dive deeper into the industry, in the hopes of an exit opportunity to another advisory firm (since PE doesn't seem an option for someone non-traditional IB) or remain at the bank if suitable for a long period of time. 

I know the proxy solicitor to activism banker route is becoming popular but given the low pay (~$60,000) and poor hours I am hesitant to take this route. I did not graduate with a great gpa (3.0, top 50 university, non-ivy), but am hoping I can supplement my professional experience to get into a top b-school, or possibly take the JD route which seems to be popular as well.

Curious what anyone in the industry recommends - how long I should stick out my current role to best leverage the experience, if B-school or JD is worth it / needed. I appreciate any feedback!