Help finding the right path.

I am kind of in a learning rut right now. I have read enough on Linux to get the basics down pretty good. I am even on my way to learning about tweaking some configurations. It is all great fun but where do I go from there? I would really like to start coding in C++ but it is hard when I have no project to work on or some hard goal to reach. Could someone please help me with some ideas or advice? I am planning on majoring in computer science later in life. (I am only 17). If any of you have any ideas please post I will be very greatful for your answers.

First, learn your Operating System. Don't just install and configure it, learn what makes it tick. The world of linux is a completely different mindset than Windows, and only respect towards the OS and a willingness to learn is going to give you a grasp of it's potiential. Master the OS.

As for learning C++, here are a few good places to get you off the ground and into the air:

http://www.intap.net/~drw/cpp/

http://www.cplusplus.com/doc/tutorial/

http://cplus.about.com/library/blcplustut.htm

Have you played with java?

No, I haven't really toyed with Java yet. I have been attempting to learn C++ and so far I am enjoying it. I have also been recieving help with Linux and I have begun to delve into that world full tilt. I love it so much. As far as the programming goes though all I have been able to do is make programs for my math homework problems, it is interesting but I would like to find out how to write programs that work on the network like a sniffer or basic portscanner. ANybody have any suggested reading on socket programming?

If you have been learning c++, learn the entire language, you'll find that the basic structure of many languages is very much like c or c++, examples include: php, java, vb.net, c#, and many more. As for network programs, i'd say to learn as much as you can of networks and programming and experment with concepts as you learn :)

Things to Check out:
OOP- design
http://java.sun.com/docs/books/tutorial/java/concepts/

SQL- database
http://www.w3schools.com/sql/default.asp

OSI Layers- networks
http://www.webopedia.com/quick_ref/OSI_Layers.asp