Breaking Back into Finance

Hi Folks -

I came here seeking some advice and input on the recent career decision I have made - that is, getting back into the financial markets. Long story short, I graduated in 2011 and interned with a boutique IB out of Chicago, IL. I received a full-time job offer and worked there for seven months. I left for various reasons - the culture changed drastically, bonuses were not paid, and I received a job offer from a well-known software company in Austin, TX in sales - exactly what I always dreamed of doing.

Fast forward 3+ years later and I have realized my innate interest in the financial markets will never go away. I am driven by them and at 25 years old believe its time to make the move back or else it might be too late. I would love to combine the sales and relationship management experience Ive gained over the past 3 years to move into a Sales & Trading role - more specifically institutional sales.

All of that said, I have a two questions that I believe you folks could help me with: (1) Given I have a 4 month internship and 7 month full-time tenure at an IB, could I possibly jump straight into a nice position in sales at one of the top banks, or (2) should I pursue an MSF from a top-notch school (eyeing Vandy) and start applying after that? I am leaning towards (2), but I currently make ~$105k/yr ($65k base) and think it might be tough to walk away from AND pay ~$50k for another degree.

Thoughts, suggestions, and advice is all greatly appreciated.

Thank you in advance.

MG