i just downloaded the reading list for my comps. i am trying not to feel overwhelmed since i have another year (at least) before i need to sit for them. that's a hell of a reading list though!

i also need to knock out the language requirement. i have a choice between taking the course and getting a B+ or higher or learning on my own and sitting for the test. financially it would be so much better not to have to pay for yet another course and i did take a year of college french so i am thinking i may try and learn it on my own first. it's reading proficiency only so i don't need to perfect my french accent (which i of course have mastered from the knights in monty python's holy grail!)

suggestions? best way to learn french short of a vacation to france?