Concerns on Homeschool Online Programs

I just graduated high school (homeschool program) and intend on taking a gap year this year to figure out what I want to do with my life (at least for now, though I’m well aware it might change) after a degree so I have a clear path in mind when I do begin college next fall. (majoring in the arts) I’m just looking for comments from anyone who had similar thoughts before beginning college and, if so, what did you decided to do for your gap year’

I have a study abroad and road trip planned for the spring/summer. Until then I plan to begin working on my associates in Graphic Design (fully accredited and online) through PennFoster while taking a class or two at the college where my mom teaches (for free!!) and maybe an art class or two as well for more classroom hands-on experience.

I can fund all of this, so money isn’t the issue. This is what I want to do, but I guess I’m putting all of this out there just for general thoughts” Basically, I want to get clear goals in place of where I’m going (to college and beyond) so once I enter as an undergrad I’m not just floundering my first year or two changing majors a thousand times.

I know this isn’t an incredibly popular trend here in the U.S. but it’s particularly predominant with Europeans and Australians (don’t know why, but there you go:) My parents encouraged me long ago to do this and I had almost relinquished the idea until just two weeks ago (planned on community college, but changed paths), now I feel this is where I’m supposed to be.

Anyone else have a similar change in plans and, if so, what did you do (or what would you recommend) that made it memorable or what would you have done differently’ I just want to make sure that I, above all, have fun while gaining experience and don’t just waste away the year…