<p>If your parents have never heard of a gap year, it is understandable that their first reaction might be NO. But sit them down, and find out why that is their first reaction. Why do they want you out of the house now? Do they think it is a necessary part of growing up? Do they hope that you will change your major once you are in college because they think that design doesn’t promise you a good future? Are they concerned that you will mope around, eat their food, and generally not make any personal progress if you stay home? If you can come up with a plan for useful ways to utilize a gap year, they may be more willing for you to do that.</p>