RAPTORMOONX'S PROFILE

(If this doesn't go here, please move.)

(This is going to be cross-posted so I can get more ideas and opinions on the matter.)

As some of you may already know, I'm taking classes at college to learn about game programming and such. I'm currently working on an interactive entertainment certificate (which is great, but they're in limbo in the degree application process) and my school used to offer an associates degree in Interactive Game Programming. (It was scrapped due to insufficient enrollment issues.) I, now, see that the program has been reinstated. I was browsing through the courses and noticed that it takes more of a programming approach (whereas the certificate I'm going for puts more of an emphasis on logic and design).

What I'm getting at is: have you ever used programming languages like C#.NET, Flash (Actionscript), GDI (Graphics Device Interface), or DirectX? Would it be beneficial to learn all there is to know about game programming/design? What would you suggest in regards to computer system requirements (this laptop isn't powerful enough as it is)? I also see there are classes that require the student to make game playing robots....anyone ever heard of this? Thank you in advance for your input. ^_^