Wow some great advice here.
8 things Im big on:
1.If you think its going to take you 1.5 hours to plan & pre flight, get out there 3 hours before. Take your time and relax. Over prepare!
2.. Be accurate with heights/headings and PLEASE fly the dam thing in balance. The rudder aint a foot rest!
3. De-brief yourself before the instructor does. What can you do better?
4.Enjoy yourself! Remember why you are doing it!
5.When you stuff up (and you will) move on and forget about it.
6. Professionalism! Shave, Ironed shirt, loose the piercings & the pink hair, Dont call the ATO "mate" or by their first name.
7. Big personal one... I plead with my students DO not EVER use the words "about" "sort of" "maybe" "thats about right" when your flying. A mid Flight exit has been threatened...
8. Best thing i ever did.. Get an experienced instructor and get out there in marginal conditions. See what its like so the first time your in it by yourself you have confidence in your decision making abilities.