Hello everybody. Another college noob!!

[formula]

hey man, looks like a great start--I will wait for the pros specific to your platform to step in and help but those cars have tons of potential thanks to a rapidly growing aftermarket support.

--Can't beat a big-cc engine for street-pounding fun!
--if you haven't already seen, http://www.twistmachine.com should be able to help you plan out your paddle shifter setup.
--that 10 bolt should be fine for a long time, just beef it up internally as funds allow--since you aren't planning on dragging the car heavily, you can save some pretty serious unsprung weight by not switching to a heavier 12 bolt or 9 inch, without much risk of failure.
--suspension/brakes--there are too many names to list, but folks like prodigy customs can help you put together a complete package to take care of it all in one swoop. Just make sure you think about limiting unwanted travel anywhere you can--all the trick parts in the world are no good if they are coping with chassis flex and other forms of uncontrolled motion. Subframe connectors, any other kind of bracing you can think of, solid body mounts, polyurethane bushings, etc. will make a huge difference for not too much cash. Also, don't get too caught up in all of the different "completely redesign your rear suspension!" kits--most of the time, a stock-style setup with better springs and swaybars and proper shocks can make a HUGE difference.
--those wheels are going to look great on there!