I'm a Freshman at a target university, and I'm trying to get some experience in finance this sumer. I'm contemplating applying to several small and large local BB Asset Management branches but am ignorant of the process.

If a group is not explicitly hiring or is only explicitly hiring for spring internships, should I contact an alumnus in the group with a cover letter and resume or just send them a relatively casual email with a resume attached to organize a phone-call/lunch? If I have no alumni contacts in the group who should I contact about available positions?

Should I contact them now or in late March/early April? Am I already too late to find work in this industry over the summer?

Thanks in advance for any advice you care to give.