[blakethorne]

"I actually need a diploma."

Start by making sure you're confident in that statement. Depending on your desired path, it well may be true. Many never bother to ask themselves the question.

And seek out people in your desired field. Imagine the role you want to be in in 5 years and go introduce yourself to someone in that role. Even if it has to be via email. They likely will have a better pulse than your instructors on what you should be learning.