What skills outside of college should i perfect that would benefitme towards a computer hardware degree

If you can, join a local "Makers" group. Might be a physical maker space, or it could just be virtual. Regardless, there you can find all sorts of interesting hardware projects to experiment with and get experience with various hardware components. You might also find projects to work on that you hadn't even thought of!

Learn about Electronics Component.

Learn how to solder parts on Boards ( helps in re work of Computer Hardware)

See Tear Downs of computer hardware's and find out whats inside real products.

I suggest you try to learn the basics of every Operating System. You dont have to install your OS in the bio just download virtualBox.

Computer hardware engineers create the physical components and devices used in computers, tablets and other kinds of computerized parts and devices.  Computer hardware engineers have a bachelor's degree in computer engineering, although a degree in electrical engineering or computer science also is generally acceptable. A computer engineering major is similar to a major in electrical engineering but with a heavy emphasis on computer science. Also you should look for programs accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).