Recent college grad career development advice

Hi,

I am new to this forum and seeking some career advice. I came here because I have found a lot of posts to be helpful. I would like to enter the research/analysis side of finance and eventually be a PM. Some quick background: I graduated this past May (average business school) with a degree in finance. I have had an internship in the wealth management division of a medium sized bank and an internship at an endowment fund for equity research (analyzing small and mid cap stocks). My first real job post college is in operations for one of the largest hedge fund administrative firm (I fear I may have taken a job too quickly). I have begun studying for my CFA L1 and very confident I will pass.

People I networked with while at school/interning were mainly PMs. They all recommended I get a CFA L1, get my feet wet in the real world, gather a few connections at work, and then try and transfer. Is this advice accurate? Any other advice on steps I should take in my career to obtain those goals (positions/firms I should target)? Timelines along the way as well?

I appreciate the help. Thanks