How best to prep for a switch to an asset management or acquisitions role?

Currently work at a CMBS rating agency and hoping to leverage my ~2 years of experience to move over to the principal side. I have realized by now I am not as interested in CMBS as I thought and would rather get more direct exposure to transactions by (hopefully) making a lateral move into an acquisitions or asset management role. Also there is just more room for growth, both in knowledge and pay.

I have developed a good foundational knowledge of CRE analysis and excel skills as my current position has me modeling the NCF of the collateral for loans that have been originated across all property types and from just about any market, big or small, you could imagine. My whole day is in excel whether it be property, loan, or deal level analysis/ modeling. I have noticed my background, though relevant, does not totally fit the mold of what most of the open analyst roles are looking for. Most development/ investment shops seem to want at least two years of experience in basically the same kind of position as well as Argus experience, which I do not have. 

I am based in Chicago and majored in economics at a top tier university out east while playing a D1 sport. All my CRE knowledge comes from my current role as my university did not have a real estate course. I worry that when I start applying, most of my interviews will be me spinning my CMBS "modeling" experience and then going "I may not have as translatable of a background as other candidates but I went to a great school, got great grades, all while playing a sport. If you invest in me I will bridge any knowledge gaps quickly and contribute". I think taking that approach would lead to a lot of interviews that go nowhere as there are more qualified candidates who could hit the ground running coming from a similar role. I also just think it looks better to show I was willing to grind and learn outside of work to bridge any gaps I have. I would rather prep for a few months via a certification such that interviews go smoother. I know this stuff really isn't that complicated, just want to develop a plan. 

Effectively... what can I do in my own time to ditch this imposter syndrome and bridge any knowledge/skill gaps? The REFAI  Course and/or an ARGUS Certification are top of mind right now. Any other tips? I have begun networking some and am going to just tell my story frankly and ask these same questions. Thanks for help! Humble and open to any suggestions.