Breaking into Tech/Healthcare VC/PE from CB

Trying to break into healthcare or tech IB to later get into healthcare/tech-focused VC/PE shop. Currently in a CB role at a BB with its CIB merged (think JPM/Citi).

If I stay two years, I will get the opportunity to lateral to a different part of the bank in a different city. Sounds like this is a relatively safe option if I do a good job networking with the other groups, have good reviews from the senior bankers, and don't fuck up too bad. But there is also a chance I won't be allowed to as it is not guaranteed.

The issue is that I will be 1 year older than the class I lateral into and I would also have to do 4 years total of banking (assuming I stay 2 years in the IB role down the line) (also would appreciate some insight on age when people are recruiting for different roles). I would have 2 years of CB and 1-2 years of IB experience under my belt. 

Still relatively early in the application process, but I got some interest from mid-sized boutiques (think FT Partners/Houlihan Lokey/etc). Decent boutiques, but don't have the same level of brand recognition as my current BB. Hoping to get more traction from tech/healthcare groups as I continue to recruit.

Would it be advantageous to make the switch into IB ASAP regardless of the firm/coverage group to get into a good VC/PE shop down the line? What about MBA programs? How do schools view boutique IB shops vs BB IB? Would recruiters in Tech/PE/VC/MBA schools value my 2 years of CB experience? Should I not be picky about IB roles?

Honestly, I am getting decent deal and capital markets experience, as I have worked with the IB team on several staffings and our group is a very active lender in the space. I just don't know what people think of CB at a BB from a recruiting perspective. I could def explain in an interview, but need to get my foot in the door first. I have pretty good stats (3.85/4 GPA from semi-target and 1550 SAT with decent extracurriculars and deal experience).

Any insight would be appreciated. Thanks in advance!

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