I am no longer on Depakote, but while I was I too was in college, and surprising I made it through, even with A's in most of my courses, made honors twice, the spring and fall semester the year I graduated. I know though everyone is different and may have different response to the different meds, so I could only share my own experience with you.
I needed to get off of the Depakote after 2 years it was making me too tired, I'm presently on Lamictal, almost for 2 years, it is the best of the others I have been on, and has great anti-depressant qualities besides being a mood stabilizer, it is another anti-convulsant like Depakote, and you do not have to go for monthly bloodwork
Just my 2 cents, I wish you luck

DE

In giving advice seek to help, not please your friend
SOLON