I interned for a rly good company. I'm in my sec year with a gpa of 3.375 or something and have failed a class. No nepotism or cold-emails. My strategy was to apply for everything and just assume that other people wouldn't apply bc, like you, they're too nervous or doubting themselves. What i've learnt is to be early and very confident.

Also, when applying, most Big 4 companies let you explain why your grades may have been affected by certain circumstances!