Post MBA Associate exit options from top groups

Hi everyone, 

Wanted to ask a bit more nuanced question. I am graduating from HSW next year and have been fortunate enough to land an offer to join a top EB (Centerview/Evercore/PJT) in their M&A team. I understand that going to the buyside is challenging but did witness a few associates I worked with lateral to PE during my internship. 

My question is

(1) What were some of the best buyside exits / cool exits  you have seen for Post-MBA associates, especially at top groups that give great M&A experience (e.g. GS TMT/FIG, MS M&A / M&C, JPM HC, EVR, CVR, etc). Is it fair to say these people have a better chance at the buyside than those who went to more of the money center banks and chose coverage groups, hence doing more pitch work or debt raises? 

(2) What can I do in my 2nd year of my MBA, besides networking, to maximize my chances of breaking into PE, 1.5-2 years down the line? Our private equity club hasn't proved to be that helpful so I am assuming I should be doing things similar to what top undergrad students do to break into PE right away? Would participating in M&A competitions, doing case studies, LBO modeling help? 

Sorry if these are somewhat dumb questions, but would appreciate any help.

Cheers