に先立って
Usage
to do what is necessary as preparation for ~
Used for special occasions such as 'graduation' or 'study abroad'.
V / N ~~する~~ + に先立って
Examples
世界一周に先立って、保険に加入したり、新しくクレジットカードを作ったりした
In preparation for my trip around the world, I got travel insurance and made a new credit card
アメリカ留学に先立ち、現地で購入できないような参考書や辞書は先に送っておいた
Before I went to study abroad in the United States, I sent ahead any textbooks and dictionaries that I wouldn't be able to buy there