[Satan]

Part of my third semester, I will be able to study in a programming language of my choice, my main issue is, I don't really know what to pick.

I've decided to re-attend college, this time for Computer Science instead of Cosmetology.

The language options are as follows:

Java
Visual Basic
Python
C++
C#

Some background:

I hate writing Java, and always have.

Most of my programming experience has been Visual Basic.

I have no experience writing anything other than an exceptionally basic Python bot for an online site, and I don't remember any of it.

The other two, I have no experience with.

My goal is to get the most mileage out of my studies, which would include learning the most useful language, but if that's Java, it'd take some serious things to convince me that its worth my time.

(E.g. pay differences between developers of specific languages being higher, better job outlook, etc)

Any help that's descriptive and informative would be much appreciated.

[m0dem]

I voted Python because of what it can do. It's very versatile.
You might be better off with C++ though. It all depends on what you will be doing.
I would never, ever, ever recommend Visual Basic.

I don't have much experience in the job aspect of programming, so I cannot elaborate very well in that subject.

[Satan]

As for what I'd be doing, I'm unsure. Part of me wants to go into software development, and part of me doesn't but wants the knowledge of at least some language that way I can use it if I need to in the future, or have a back up in case whatever I do decide to settle on isn't in demand.

[Kappa]

I'd do C++. It's a good language to learn first.

[Satan]

I'd do C++. It's a good language to learn first.

Well, like I said, I already have experience with VB. Used it frequently for around 4 years for various purposes, and I do somewhat want a challenge, so I'm not really looking for a first language so much as something I can get the furthest with.

I appreciate the response though, I'll keep it in mind.

[roger_smith]

Well, like I said, I already have experience with VB. Used it frequently for around 4 years for various purposes, and I do somewhat want a challenge, so I'm not really looking for a first language so much as something I can get the furthest with.

I appreciate the response though, I'll keep it in mind.

I am not a programmer.

that said, of your list I personally would say go with Python. Since you don't know exactly what you want to do, python is a good option because it can be used to a certain degree for web app AND OS development work. A large portion of linux uses some level of python scripts/programs, and python can be used for web CGI scripts.

Others may chime in and know more about the nuances of each language, but speaking from my non-programmer viewpoint, I see a LOT of python doing various things.

[DarkMuse]

Alright so I voted for c++. It's object oriented like java, however it is quite different from VB. C++ is not windows restricted like c# and VB are. C++ is used to write a serious amount of software including games which include Call Of Duty and Halo to name a few. Ultimately I believe that you will get the most use and you will learn a lot from c++. If you can get C++ it will make Java infinitely easier and maybe even a bit more enjoyable from what I've heard and read. If C++ is too tricky (no offense intended) Learn C and it will make it's children (C#, C++, Objective-C) a lot easier. Ultimately it's up to you but I am going to firmly recommend C++.

Spoiler:

You'll also be able to be one of those guys who says "I'M A HARDCORE C++ GUY, MEH"

[m0dem]

As for what I'd be doing, I'm unsure. Part of me wants to go into software development, and part of me doesn't but wants the knowledge of at least some language that way I can use it if I need to in the future, or have a back up in case whatever I do decide to settle on isn't in demand.

If you want a stepping stone to C++, try Python first. If you want a stepping stone to every other language ever, do C.
C pointers are a very valuable knowledge btw.

[meow]

Java is a terrible first language and anything exclusive to Windows sucks dick, therefore the only options left are Python and C++.
Buuuut based on your post you seem pretty inexperienced as a programmer, meaning C++ would kill you. Anyone who says it's good as a first language should play on the highway. Python is the last man standing.

TL;DR - Python

[pvnk]

Python is a good starting language. I'm unsure if anyone else has suggested it, but I'm suggesting it.