I disagree entirely with the notion that you can't prepare. Get your maths up to speed, do loads of speed/ distance/ time/ fuel calculations. Computer games with any form of eye-hand tracking task will also help. Even if it's only psychological the notion that you are well prepared shouldn't be under estimated.
Above all - you are about to enter a world that has more than it's fair share of bullsh#tt#rs. Don't be at all put off by the (inevitable) guy with 1000 hours or the chap who's been there and done it all before.
Best of luck.