Should already be connected to a node. Btc sessions just did a 15 minute video on getting noobs started with sparrow:

Yes, I recall not needing a node when I first used it.

There are 4 or 5 default public nodes you can choose from. I think you have to select one when you set up a new wallet, but it’s part of the setup process if I remember correctly.

This sounds right. I believe you can also use tor to connect to them.