Dealing with people who are already ahead? How do I make that me?

I am an animation student (with a background in fine arts). I have friends who have advanced knowledge and skills. When they network they have work to show and discuss. I dont. I am in my final year and honestly not skilled enough, and with college I dont have time to be. But these people are and its enough that they work on personal (skills) projects and also do college projects last minute. Why am I talking about this? I need a mentor or tangible advice on how to help myself and improve. . . . . I also have fine art skills oil, arcylics. Not being able to give them time with college but yes thats were my heart lies. How do I integrate that with my present. Any advice?