Anyone else trying to break into investment banking with no connections?

I've been looking into investment banking recently, and honestly it feels kind of overwhelming. Every time I read about recruiting, people talk about networking, internships, technical interviews, and it makes me wonder where everyone even starts.

For those who made it in, what helped you the most? Was it networking, practicing technical questions, or just applying everywhere until something worked?

I'd love to hear what you wish you knew when you were starting out.