Advice on breaking into PE

Hello everyone,

Long time lurker on WSO and first time posting something.

I wanted to get some advice from you regarding breaking into PE, or more so, if it is doable to do so. For some background, I did my undergrad in the US (not a target school, but amongst top 40 in the US). After graduating, I did a couple of internships at small PE shops of 6 months each, before having to go back to my home country (visa expired).

When I cam back, I tried to continue my path into PE and thought that the best way was to do some years at IB. As I arrived during the middle of the Covid crisis, there wasn´t many or any opportunities at all in my country, so I ended at B4 doing TAS. 

After a 1.5 years, I secured an offer at a recently created IB boutique - even though I had other processes at known national/international banks, I really like the "entrepreneuship" side of things, and I knew I would learn a hell of a lot more. Became an ASO after 1.5 years, before my company went under (due to the founder's personal motives, not as a result of poor financial performance - we were actually doing great). Following my departure, I tried to finally get into PE, but without any luck. (This was during H2 2023). As bills started piling up, I needed to get a job ASAP. I secured a position at a regional low-to-middle market investment bank (not very prestigious) as a Senior Associate.

Which brings me to today. The firm I am working for rn is not what I hoped would be. I would like to make the move to PE, and I believe I need to do so ASAP, as I am not as "young" anymore lol (I'm 28). So, my question is:  Can I make the transition to PE? What steps would you recommend me taking? Should I move to a prestigious IB and then make the move?

Sorry for the long post. I appreaciate your time in reading this out, and would love any advice on the matter.

P.S.: I live in Europe, but not in the UK.