JoeybeginsherfirstdayatWorthingtonUniversitywheresheisstrugglinginherbeginnerswritingclasstaughtbyProfessorDavidWilderwhocriticizesherfirstessayaboutherandDawson.AudreyLiddell,Joey'sbrashnewroommatefromBeverlyHills,provestobemoreofanannoyancethanafriendwithherwildandcrazypersonality.Dawson,who'scontinuinghisstudiesatUSCwithaninternshipinHollywood,beginshisjobonashakystartwhenhemeetsToddCarr,anarrogant,egocentric,hackfilmdirectorwhogivesDawsonahardtime.Meanwhile,JenpaysPaceyavisit,who'slyinglowashedockshisyachtinBostonHarboraftersailingawaythesummer.AtnearbyBostonBayCollege,JenandJackareinvitedtotheirfirstfraternityparty.TheypersuadeJoeytocomealongwithAudreywhoseemstogetalongwithJenandJack,muchtoJoey'ssurprise.Also,JenmeetsCharlie,abassplayer.Sheisrudetohim,insultinghimaway,butdeepinsidefeelsstronglyattractedtohim.