iPad mini screen

The new iPad mini looks impressive, I'd like to know your opinion about its screen. It's not retina but it should be better than the iPad 2.

Could it be the right choice for a college student? Most tasks will be, reading pdf and books, videoconferences, email + web.

What about the CPU? Is there a risk to be out dated too soon? Should I get the retina for this kind of stuff?

Thank you for your comments and advices.

All the best