What to do being an International Student in a Non-Target Canadian School? Should I do any online courses?

Hello,

I am a 19 years old Brazilian studying finance in Canada. The dream is to work in IB or VC in New York. However, I am unsure of what I should do to get there... should I take online courses (WSO, TTS, BIWS) or should I try looking into getting other things such as ARGUS or SERIES 7 OR 63? I am looking for things I can add to my resume so it looks more competitive, things to help me land a job next summer (Since COVID is still here).
Additionally, being an International Student I don't have lots of contacts in Canada or USA and therefore I struggle with Cold Calls and things like Coffe Chats. Do you guys have any ideas on how I should contact people for these things? I mean, should I send them a message on LinkedIn out of the blue or should I e-mail them?

Furthermore, talking about networking events... should I tell people that "I am interested to work with Finance and that as a second-year student I don't have lots of experience but I am willing to work for free, just for the experience"?

Also...
Taking part in school clubs is important?
Should I aim to get a Masters from a Top School?

Anyways, any tips/advice you guys have for a 2nd year International Student would be appreciated :) I just want to be prepared for when opportunities show up and to set myself for success.

Thanks

 

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