Ep 17. North Star

In Black-ish season 4 episode 17, titled "North Star," Dre and Bow's oldest son, Junior, is getting ready to apply for college and the family is faced with the challenge of finding the right school for him. However, Junior has a pivotal realization when he discovers that his SAT score is not as high as he had hoped. After seeking advice from his family, Junior decides to take the test again in hopes of scoring higher. As his family rallies behind him to make sure he succeeds, they also begin to wonder if they placed too much pressure on him to be perfect.

Meanwhile, Dre and Bow are dealing with their own issues as they struggle to find common ground on how to best help Junior through the college application process. Dre wants Junior to attend his alma mater and follow in his footsteps, while Bow wants Junior to go to a school that will challenge him and support his passions. As they debate, they each realize how much their own experiences are shaping their perceptions of what is best for their son.

As the episode progresses, the family comes together to celebrate Junior's latest achievement: being accepted into his dream school. However, tensions begin to rise again when Dre and Bow realize that they have different ideas on how to pay for Junior's tuition. Despite the challenges they face, the family ultimately sticks together and members are reminded of the importance of supporting each other through thick and thin.

"North Star" is a heartwarming and relatable episode that showcases the struggles many families face when it comes to navigating the college application process. Through Junior's story, viewers see the importance of hard work, perseverance, and the power of family support. The episode also highlights the sometimes-difficult decisions parents must make in order to guide their children towards a bright future. Throughout the episode, the dialogue and themes provide a deeper understanding of the challenges that come with college applications, making viewers more empathetic.

Overall, "North Star" is a standout episode of Black-ish season 4, exploring themes of family and education with authenticity, heart, and humor. The episode is a must-watch for anyone who has ever struggled with finding their path or navigated the complexities of the college application process as a student or parent.