[OT] Question: which programming language?

Hi all. I would like opinions from those on the list about which programming language a noob like myself with no prior skills or experience should focus on. My goal is to enroll in a few introductory classes at my old University (UW-Madison). I want to learn C++ and one other, such as PERL, Assembly, Java, etc.... but am unsure as to what other language to use. I have hopes of creating my own programs, and more over learning how to create GUI's for existing Linux programs (e.g. giving certain video and audio console base programs a face that is both intuitive and well rounded). Any Suggestions will be greatly appreciated. TIA, Curtis