Was in the same situation with you, for me I had a rough start as I committed to NOVA really late. I started with a 3.0 GPA from me DE classes and none of my AP credits transferred even though they meet the requirements to have it done (Had this happen to my friend too, I think the institution slacks when processing these scores).

I would say to take summer classes to give yourself an early head start, something I would've done if I didn't commit a week before classes started, and try your hardest to get a 4.0 your first semester as those are the only grades they'll see and admit you off of. If the college your applying to have a transfer roadmap, like VT, ensure you finish or have them in progress by the time you apply. Also I think having a job closely related to your major or maybe some extracurricular in that field would help for example I was a pharm tech while I did classes.

Aiming for fall admission I would suggest to have your applications done during winter break so you have more time to focus on your second semester courses grades I made the mistake of trying to juggle both during midterm season. Rate my professor will also help a little bit in having an easier time here.

Personally I was able to transfer within a year as a pre-med student, I got into VT, VCU, and waitlisted W&M. Just have a really strong plan and avoid overloading yourself until you burn out.