Big4 IB

I currently have an offer to do non-CPA M&A Advisory at Big4, or do Audit at the same Big4 and get CPA, before later potentially switching to Advisory.

I come from a target school (originally non-business background however), but was to be quite honest and blunt, unaware of IB and other related fields in finance early on. So once recruiting came around, and I saw all these kids with more relevant experience around me, I decided to pursue accounting as everyone told me its a great foundation, etc to start with. However after having completed an internship at a Big4 and speaking to various people I am even more confused. MDs in the Advisory group would tell me conflicting information. One MD with a CPA from Europe told me its worth the investment now to get my CPA; however another MD with a CPA from North America, told me its not necessarily worth it. Mind you both MDs got their CPA from the same Big4. Others in finance have told me its useless, while others say its nice to have (i.e. gives you credibility, etc.) And so a couple of questions:

- I know long-term finance is where I want to be, and I always hear that Advisory is a great start for such a career, but at the same time could someone specifiy what the exit opps really are for this kind of position?
- Is it worth the the 2-3 years investment now to do CPA, and switch later to Advisory (which isn't a guaranteed switch for me btw, as tons of audit people want to make the switch apparently)?
- How does Advisory compare to boutiques IBs? Where does it "rank" amongst them. I realize they focus more on mid-market, but any thoughts (i.e. in terms of deal flow, "prestige", etc.)?

Thanks for the input. Really appreciate it