A few things that helped me:
1. Get an airband radio and listen to how the pros do it (or don't!)
2. Stick post-its in your car with check lists......if traffic lights red, practice MAYDAY calls and crash checks -if green PAN call and checks...honest!
3. Hook up with other students and back seat on their sessions.
4. Read EVERYTHING associated with aviation that you can get your hands on.
5. Ask/take the opportunity to chuck the plane around/push the envelope/unusual recovery angles etc -it will give you LOADS of confidence.
6. If in doubt, ASK!!!
7. NAV -get used to MATZ penetration/zone transits -don't be afraid to ask!
Have fun!