Seeking Advise/Comments on a Risky Career Move

Hi everyone, been contemplating what I feel to be a risky career move and wanted to hear people's opinions and advise.

Background: I graduated form a Non-Target with a degree in Finance (3.9 GPA). I have been working at a regional boutique as an Analyst for two years (1yr as an Intern during my senior year, 1yr as a FT). The firm has good deal flow and handles transactions around EV:$100-300m (mainly buy & sell side M&A). My work is mostly modeling, presentations & due-diligence. Down-side: They pay poorly, work me like a mule and are not a brand-name shop.

What I am seeking: A Lateral Analyst position at a brand name bank in NYC or London; ideally a Consumer/Retail/Food or M&A group where I can leverage my background in a broader industry / product group and further my technical and professional experience.

Why: I genuinely want to learn and broaden my experience at a brand name bank, earn the pedigree that will allow me to pursue better opportunities later on in my life and I also do not want to limit myself to one extremely niche sector; especially while I am still early in my life and career (22 years old).

Risky Career Choice: After my bonus hits, quit the firm and focus 100% of my time on networking, studying and recruiting into a top shop. Risk Mitigants: I have a decent savings and I know I can easily get a job at another regional boutique if need be. I can also always GMAT>MBA>Associate.

Side Note: Over the past month I have been networking and studying but am very limited on time (working pretty much Monday through Sunday, 70-90 hours a week)

Would love to hear some opinions on this. Thanks!

 

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