Credit Analyst in LO AM or Private credit shops post MBA

Hi there,

I have five years of experience in credit investment at a tier-one LO shop in Europe—80% leveraged loans, 15% high yield, and 5% private placements. I was fortunate to skip IB and go directly to the buy side after college.

Now, I am about to finish my MBA (H/S/W) and start recruiting. Based on my experience, I see two potential paths:

1. Joining an LO in the US and focusing on the same asset class (leveraged loans/ HY), with a long-term goal of following the portfolio manager track (I have no interest in IG or municipals).
2. Joining a private credit firm (Ares, Blue Owl, Golub, etc.), where I hope to develop skills in direct lending, due diligence, and structuring.

Could you help me decide which track to pursue? I currently have job leads on both sides: a $100bn AUM LO and a senior associate role at a credit shop (Ares/Golub/Blue Owl).

Specifically, I have the following questions: 

1. I'd love to hear your thoughts on industry trends, career progression, and long-term work-life balance. I don’t mind grinding for the next three years, but as a woman, I hope to have kids in the next five years, so I’d like to factor that into my decision.
2. Comp-wise, my previous job in Europe LO pays very little bonus (30%). Is that the typical bonus I should expect from a US LO credit analyst role?  On the base side, most LOs offer 190k-210k for the post-MBA position I am interviewing for. 
3. What would the comp structure be for PC ? I think carry can be limited. How is the comp structure different between a loan shop and a PC arm of a PE firm (i.e. Blackstone)
4. I haven’t met many post-MBAs who have chosen between these paths—perhaps private credit attracts more MBAs. How do you think I should frame my MBA experience for these roles?

Thank you so much for answering any of my questions!