Incoming EVR/MOE/LAZ Non-Target SA

Hey everyone, incoming SA at a top NY EB curious about the summer analyst program. Two of my friends are going to the other 2 banks but we have general questions for anyone who can answer since we don't have any returning upperclassmen or current analysts at our banks. Should we be networking with people in the groups we want to place into FT before the internship (around April)? Also, I have some experience doing modeling (basic DCF stuff or comps) but nothing crazy and see a lot of incoming SAs have some pretty nice experiences, should I be doing more technical prep and if so what? Finally could anyone offer insight into the placement process for FT at any of these banks or what groups are most coveted?

I've looked through the forum about all of these questions but the advice is rather general or old so wanted to know if anyone could offer us more information.