As the seniors at The Harbor School and Newport Union prepare their college applications, Ryan, Seth, Summer and Marissa decide what to do about their futures, and whether to go to college. Unable to make a decision, Marissa attends Johnny's surf competition instead of completing her college application. Meanwhile, Julie is forced to return to her roots and live in a trailer park, and Kirsten, eager to get back to work, asks a friend for help. Sandy invites an old friend from UC Berkeley to dinner with Seth and Ryan.