From education/athletics to Finance

I've skimmed through various discussions on this board regarding career change and wanted to add my own.

I'm a graduate of the University of Georgia with a B.A. in History. I played football for UGA as well as professionally overseas. For the past five years, I've taught Business and Economics for students in dual enrollment to receive college credit.

Currently, I'm in the application process with Merrill Lynch and Morgan Stanley's Financial Advisor programs. I understand these are sales roles and I'm prepared for that reality given it will provide me experience and education in the financial services industry. I will also pursue a CFA designation.

I'm seeking advice on the mentioned FA programs, which has better training, which provides the most upside, etc.
My career goal is to be in a front office, client facing role with an investment bank. However, my background won't get me into one of these roles. I'm hoping a job with MS or ML will give me relative work experience to move towards IB.

I appreciate any thoughts or advice on moving forward.