How can I stand out when applying for entry-level corporate jobs in New York City if I don't have corporate internship experience?

I'm currently a senior in college majoring in Communication, and I'm hoping to move to New York City after graduation. I'm interested in corporate communications, marketing, and other business-related positions. Most of my work experience has been in retail, so I'm worried about competing with applicants who have already completed corporate internships. What can I do now to make my resume stronger, build connections, and increase my chances of getting hired?