Moving from Tech Sales to IB: IB or MBA first?

Hello,

I’ve spent the past three years working in tech sales while simultaneously completing my degree, which I’m set to finish in January 2025. At 26 years old, living in the Middle East, I’ve experienced the highs and lows of the tech industry, having gone through three layoffs since 2021. The instability and the feeling of being expendable have left me frustrated, and after my most recent layoff, I came to the conclusion that I want to pivot and pursue a more stable, long-term career.

Initially, I was torn between two paths: consulting and investment banking. However, after careful consideration, I’ve decided that IB is where I truly want to focus my efforts. About a month ago, I began sending out my CV to various firms in both fields. My academic background is strong, with a 3.9 GPA, combined with three years of sales experience and my service in an elite combat unit during my military tenure. Despite this, I now realize I was too hasty in my approach, especially regarding the interview process.

Two MBB consulting firms invited me to interview, but after researching their process, I knew I wasn’t adequately prepared and, frankly, my interest in consulting had waned. I made the decision to cancel those interviews. However, I still have an application under review for a top-tier IB off-cycle internship.

Given that IB requires rigorous preparation, particularly for technical interviews, I’m now at a crossroads. Should I withdraw my current application, take the time to fully prepare over the next year, and reapply when I’m more confident in my ability to succeed? My concern is that I might burn myself by entering interviews unprepared, which could affect future prospects.

In addition, I’ve been seriously considering pursuing an MBA. I see it as a pivotal opportunity to facilitate my career change and strengthen my overall profile. My dilemma is whether I should focus this year on preparing for the GRE or GMAT to gain acceptance into an M7 program, with the intent of transitioning into IB after the MBA. Or should I prioritize preparing for IB interviews now, secure an internship or analyst position, and pursue the MBA further down the line?

At this point, I’m standing at a career crossroads and would deeply appreciate any insight or advice on how best to move forward.

TL;DR: I’m a 26-year-old tech sales professional with a 3.9 GPA and military experience, seeking to pivot into IB after three years of instability in my current field. I applied for IB and consulting roles hastily, canceling consulting interviews due to lack of preparation. My IB application is still under review, but I’m wondering if I should withdraw it to give myself time to prepare thoroughly or risk interviewing unprepared. Additionally, I’m considering pursuing an MBA as a strategic step to facilitate my career change. Any advice on which path to take—preparing for IB now or focusing on the MBA—would be greatly appreciated.