Learning From The Masters: Level Design In The Legend Of Zelda

Recommended reading:
http://www.gamasutra.com/view/feature/6582/learning_from_the_masters_level_.php

The classics will always have something to teach us.

What Every Computer Science Major Should Know

Recommended reading:
http://matt.might.net/articles/what-cs-majors-should-know/
I appreciate the specific suggestions in this article, and I particularly agree with the need for a portfolio (including code samples). Thanks to Steve Bloch for the link.

Construct 2

Construct 2 is an amazing drag-and-drop style game editor that compiles games to HTML5 and JavaScript, which can then be hosted on Scirra's Arcade or on Kongregate. The free version that has 95% of the capabilities of the paid version. JavaScript plugins are easy to write. The user community forums are active and helpful. Try it out!