[MMM]

I wouldn't be expecting too much help, here. Can you take a Japanese 1 class? The more time invest now in getting to know the language, the better the experience is going to be for you.

The best ways to prepare are (by ranking)

1) Get into a class.
2) Get a tutor who you meet with on a regular schedule.
3) An online class
4) Check japanese community center websites for free classes
5) buy a text book and try to teach your self
6) come to Japan Forum and ask someone to teach you

If you are living there, the main thing you are going to want to know is SPEAKING and LISTENING. You should learn HIRAGANA and KATAKANA, but don't feel like you need to learn all the kanji, 'cause you can't. That takes a lifetime. Basically I would invest more time in SPEAKING and LISTENING than in READING and WRITING for starters.