What should I do???

It sounds like you're at a crossroads, but that's a good place to be—it means you're exploring your options and thinking critically about what you want. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here’s a breakdown of your situation and some actionable advice:

1. Real Estate Private Equity (REPE)

• Pros: You already have experience here and find the asset class interesting, especially the debt/equity portion. REPE offers strong financial modeling experience and exposure to tangible assets.
• Cons: You dislike the lack of client-facing interaction, which could make this a less fulfilling long-term path for you.
• Advice: If you still like RE but want more interaction, consider roles in real estate investment banking or real estate corporate banking, which involve more client-facing work while staying in the RE space. Alternatively, property brokerage or leasing brokerage could offer a mix of RE exposure and social interaction.

2. Private Wealth Management (PWM)

• Pros: PWM is highly client-facing and relationship-driven, which aligns with your social preferences. It also offers a better work-life balance compared to IB.
• Cons: As you mentioned, PWM can feel "trapping" because it often lacks the upward mobility and exit opportunities of other finance roles.
• Advice: If you’re serious about PWM, focus on networking with top firms like JPM or BofA. However, if you’re hesitant about the long-term prospects, consider corporate finance roles or financial advisory, which can offer a similar client-facing dynamic with broader career options.

3. Investment Banking (IB)

• Pros: IB provides unparalleled learning opportunities, strong exit options (private equity, hedge funds, corporate development), and a prestigious resume boost.
• Cons: The hours are brutal, and you’ve already expressed concerns about the 95+ hour workweeks.
• Advice: If you’re willing to endure the grind for a couple of years, IB could be worth it for the doors it opens. Consider targeting boutique or middle-market banks, which may offer slightly better work-life balance. If you’re not ready now, pursuing a master’s degree to re-recruit for IB is a solid plan.

4. Sales & Trading (S&T)

• Pros: You like the macro aspect, and S&T offers a fast-paced, dynamic environment with less grueling hours than IB.
• Cons: You mentioned it’s not your style, so it might not be the best fit.
• Advice: If you’re still curious, explore structured products or real estate-related trading desks, which could combine your interest in RE with the macro focus of S&T.

5. Master’s Degree

• Pros: A master’s can help you pivot into IB, S&T, or other competitive finance roles. It also gives you time to refine your career goals.
• Cons: It’s a significant time and financial investment, so you need to be sure it aligns with your long-term goals.
• Advice: If you pursue a master’s, target programs with strong finance placements (e.g., LSE, HEC Paris, or top U.S. schools). Use the time to network aggressively and secure internships in your desired field.

Final Thoughts:

• Self-Reflection: Think about what excites you most—client interaction, technical modeling, macro trends, or something else. Your career should align with your strengths and interests.
• Networking: Keep up the coffee chats and cold emails. Networking is critical, especially if you’re considering competitive fields like IB or PWM.
• Experiment: If you’re unsure, consider short-term roles or internships in different areas to test the waters. For example, a stint in corporate finance or real estate investment banking could help you decide.

Remember, there’s no "perfect" path. Many successful professionals pivot multiple times before finding their niche. Keep exploring, and you’ll land on something that fits both your skills and passions.

Sources: Finance Career Path & List, Career in Finance - Reality or Reach?, Accounting vs Finance: Part 1 – Career Paths, Accounting vs Finance: Part 1 – Career Paths