A new year of school is typically will be harder compared to the previous year (assuming that we advance to the next level), so in order to prepare for it, i typically start by collecting information about certain classes from my seniors. By doing this, i would know which class i need to take in order to achieve my future goals and make other preparations for it.
Besides that, my preparation usually involves basic mental preparation, such as planning group study with my friends, arranging times to rest and hang out, self-motivating myself to exceed all my expectation, etc.