Ep 4. College Bored

Daria is an animated sitcom that follows the life of Daria Morgendorffer, an intelligent and sarcastic high school student, as she navigates through the ups and downs of teenage life. In the fourth episode of the first season, entitled "College Bored," Daria's sister Quinn starts receiving catalogues from prestigious universities and becomes obsessed with the idea of going to college. Meanwhile, Daria is completely uninterested in the prospect of higher education, preferring to focus on her own interests and hobbies.

As Quinn becomes increasingly preoccupied with her college applications and touring campuses, Daria sets out to prove that college is not the be-all and end-all of success. She is determined to prove that a person's worth is not measured by the institutions they attend or the degree they hold. Along the way, Daria and her best friend Jane plan a day trip to a nearby city to indulge in their own version of a college experience.

As the two girls explore the city, they engage in a series of absurd and sometimes dangerous activities that test their boundaries and their friendship. From shoplifting to breaking into a college dorm room, Daria and Jane realize that life is full of opportunities, whether or not they involve a degree or a prestigious university.

Meanwhile, Quinn's college obsession reaches new heights as she enlists the help of her parents to hire a personal college consultant. The consultant, however, turns out to be more interested in taking advantage of the Morgendorffers' wealth than actually helping Quinn with her applications. Quinn's dreams of getting into a top-tier university are crushed when it becomes apparent that her consultant has duped her family out of thousands of dollars.

As the episode comes to a close, Daria and Jane return home, excited to share their adventures with their friends. Quinn, now disillusioned with the college application process, admits that she is unsure of what she really wants out of life. Daria offers some words of wisdom, explaining that it's important to stay true to oneself and not be swayed by society's expectations or pressures. In the end, Daria and Quinn bond over their shared confusion and uncertainty about the future, reminding viewers that it's okay not to have all the answers.

Overall, "College Bored" is a thought-provoking and entertaining episode that explores the often-overlooked themes of individuality, self-discovery, and the pressure to conform to societal norms. Through Daria's rebellious and sarcastic attitude, the show challenges the idea that one must pursue higher education in order to be successful or happy. Instead, it encourages viewers to embrace their own unique paths in life, even if those paths diverge from tradition or convention. With its sharp writing, witty humor, and relatable characters, Daria continues to be a beloved cult classic that stands the test of time.