Hey everyone, Im Tyrus Burton a senior accounting student at MS State University. I’m graduating this December with my accounting degree and am currently mapping out my next steps. My short-term plan is to either transition straight into a full-time role in Audit then Transaction adivosyr/Financial Due Diligence or pursue a Master of Science in Finance (MSF) with a focus on breaking into investment banking. Both routes are mainly to gain hands on deal experience. Long-term, my ultimate ambition is in ETA and building a small holding company. I fully recognize that building a holding co isn't a quick or easy. This is a long term vision I have for my life. Something I want to have by mid 30s-40s, I'm 22. Right now, my main priority is structuring the early phase of my career around gaining knowledge, deal experience, and operational understanding needed to eventually execute that vision. As I finalize my decision between stepping straight into the market versus doing an MSF to position for IB, I’d love to hear from this community: 1. Career Positioning: For those who came through corporate finance/IB, how well did that deal exposure prepare you for your first acquisition? 2. Pathways: Would you recommend jumping straight into full-time finance/accounting roles now, or leveraging an MSF program to pivot directly into boutique IB to get deal experience? 3. Backgrounds: I’d love to hear your own stories what did your early career look like before you made your first acquisition or started thinking about doing so? I appreciate any feedback, advice, or shared experiences!