I've noticed the controllers are a little more tense and don't have the courtesy to handle VFR flight following.  In fact, I normally file IFR but just to try to take a little load off, I've been doing VFR as much as possible and staying under the Class C here in KMEM as I depart so I don't have to even call in for transition through the area.  It hasn't been a problem and the weather has cooperated.  The one time I did have to file, the controllers did their usual professional job and issued my clearance and got me into the system with no problem.  I did make a concious effort not to bother them with altitude changes and re-routes as much as possible unless it was just a "have to" situation.

I'd recommend that, if you're a student, don't even go close to controlled airspace.  Take this time to get your landings perfect, proctice crosswind work, don't get into the "upside down wedding cake" and be as self-sufficient as you possibly can without sacrificing safety in any way.   In fact, try to stay in the pattern, practice your approaches at your own airport unless it's in a place to where you have to talk to ATC.

Remember, these folks keep us safe and now it's our turn to keep as much of the load off them as possible.  The last thing they need is a bunch of GA airplanes jumping in (in my case) during a FedEX push or airline arrivals and departures.  Have some consideration for these folks.  They didn't ask for this situation and they have a lot on their plates at home.