How to learn machine learning as a beginner?

I'm a second-year CS student interested in AI and machine learning, but I'm completely overwhelmed by where to start. The field seems so vast and complex, with terms like neural networks, deep learning, and algorithms that I don't fully understand yet. I've tried watching some YouTube videos and reading articles, but they either assume too much prior knowledge or are too basic. I'm looking for a structured learning path that will take me from beginner to being able to work on real projects. What resources, courses, or learning paths would you recommend for someone just starting with machine learning? Are there specific programming languages I should focus on, and what projects would be good for beginners to practice with?