Investment Banking Senior Associate to Private Equity Dilemma

Bernankey:

This question goes out to those with 5+ years of experience in the PE industry.

Question:

Does it make sense for a senior IB associate with 3+ years of IB experience to transition from a 2nd tier investment bank to a bulge bracket in order to have better shot at breaking into PE?

Background:

I'm currently a senior associate in a coverage group at a second-tier investment bank (e.g. BNP, SocGen, RBC, Wells) with 3+ years of experience in IB and 2+ years of experience as an equity analyst at a hedge fund. My goal is to transition into PE, however, this has been difficult as my profile doesn't fit the traditional mold (i.e. 2nd or 3rd year analyst at a bulge bracket). I've met with every recruiter in NYC, and I have yet to get a first round interview at any PE shop they represent.

Dilemma:

The longer a person stays in banking, the harder it becomes to leave banking. If the goal is to leave IB, then does it make sense to go to another IB just to achieve that goal?

You are too late to the game... let's put it this way, if you transition into a BB and get into PE, it's not because BB banking helped you get in... it's pure luck...