Year 12s: what will be the first way you research your future options? >>

Unusual background, where would suit me?

I’m 31 years old, studied architecture and have worked as an architect for 9 years. Over the past few years I’ve realized that I’m more interested in asset management, specifically alternative asset management (hedge funds, private equity or real estate finance).

I know breaking into finance will be challenging, especially since I’m less interested in corporate finance, sell side, mutual funds, etc. I think top European programs might give me a good shot at getting directly into alternative AM. American MSF and MBA programs are extremely expensive (I’m not poor but I’m cheap), and other than Princeton and MIT, it seems like our MSF programs don’t place that well on the buy side.

My stats
770 GMAT (just expired, assume I can do it again)
BA with honors, 3.5/4.0 at a good state school
Math through differential equations, but no courses in economics, accounting or finance
Self-taught value investor, 30% annualized returns over the last 3 years with a long/short strategy in my personal account
This year I want to take the first few courses in Harvard Extension School’s ALMM Finance program, which would strengthen my candidacy

LSE MSc Finance and Private Equity, Finance, and Real Estate Economics & Finance are appealing.
Imperial MSc Investment & Wealth Management or Finance look good.
Cass MSc Investment Management, Finance or Real Estate Investment likewise.
Oxford MFE seems like a long shot. LBS, Cambridge and UCL don’t offer suitable programs.
Warwick, Cranfield, etc. might not be well enough known in the states.
Other possibilities include Vanderbilt, Villanova, Boston College, Harvard Extension School, etc.

What programs would you suggest? How is hedge fund, PE, and RE recruiting at LSE, Imperial and Cass?

Thanks.