How do I get refferals for Co-Ops and Internships I'm applying for?

What’s the best way for students to get referrals for co‑ops or internships? I’m trying to understand how the process usually works and what steps actually make a difference. I've already completed one Co-Op as a financial analyst at TJX, but did that without referrals or networking. Any advice from people who’ve been on either side of the referral process would be really helpful.