If you are just going to learn a programming language, there is still plenty of competition. Instead, I would suggest that you build a web-based product. It involves a lot of moving parts that you will get familiar with. It is quite an arduous task.
Don't focus on the tool (programming language); instead, step back a little bit, see the bigger picture and build something with that tool. People are much more appreciate of such efforts.
Edit: In case you need some hand holding in the initial stages, I am more than willing to help.
Is there a way you can collect browser stats? You should be able to pull something from the server logs. Once you have done that, take a look at them numbers and you will have a fair idea on what your userbase prefers. If I see something like 50% of IE7, I would think that it's a good business decision to support IE7 development if my bread and butter depends on that.
I was able to augment Pimsleur's Japanese tapes with some reading to crack the old Level 4 of Japanese Language Proficiency Test. It was a very good starting point. Worked well for me I would say.
A visual language called G exists. It is forms the backbone of LabVIEW (a product of National Instruments [NI]). You could use it like any other programming language to solve problems. IMHO it is quite powerful. However, LabVIEW's real strength lies in providing an easy interface for data acquisition from cards, again by NI, specifically built for the purpose. LabVIEW is pretty much ubuquitous in university labs.
This page http://programmers.stackexchange.com/questions/46716/what-sh... suggests that both bcrypt and scrypt can be used (4th bullet under 'Security'). Disclosure: I added the scrypt part alongwith the references which the mods haven't deleted yet (so I am guessing it is ok).
I just went with bcrypt in my project for now because postgresql has it as a built-in function. I couldn't find for scrypt that was readily usable.
Such an arrangement of payment in a different currency might fly in the US. But I am guessing such stunts in the top two populous countries can get you arrested?
But be warned that usage of psychotropic substances may act as a catalyst to bring out any latent psychological issues. Also, there is the possibility of a bad trip.