Ep 1. A World Full of Strangers

A group of freshmen has arrived on campus at the fictional Lancer University, hoping to start their college experience on the right foot. But a few of them aren't off to a great start. Marti Perkins (Aly Michalka), a pre-law student who is struggling to pay for her education, has just lost her scholarship, and her roommate Wanda (Gail O'Grady) isn't exactly sympathetic. Meanwhile, Dan (Matt Barr), another freshman, is trying to find his place on campus and join a fraternity, but his first attempt doesn't go well.

Marti, desperate to find a way to pay for school, decides to try out for the Hellcats, the university's cheerleading squad. Although she lacks experience, Marti shows potential and catches the eye of Savannah (Ashley Tisdale), the captain of the Hellcats. Savannah is impressed with Marti's talent and recruits her onto the squad.

But Marti's new position doesn't sit well with her best friend from back home, Lewis (Robbie Jones), who thinks cheerleading is beneath her. Marti also clashes with Savannah's best friend, Alice (Heather Hemmens), who is jealous of Marti's sudden appearance on the squad.

As the Hellcats get ready for their first game, the girls are faced with a new challenge: their coach, Vanessa (Sharon Leal), is dealing with a personal crisis and can't be there to guide them. Savannah steps up in Vanessa's absence, but the Hellcats soon face another problem: the cheerleading team from their biggest rival school has stolen their routine.

The episode culminates in a tense cheer-off between the Hellcats and their rivals. Marti, who has been struggling to fit in, surprises everyone with her skills and helps secure a victory for the Hellcats.

Throughout the episode, we see glimpses into each character's backstory and motivations. Marti's father is in prison, and she is determined to break the cycle of poverty in her family. Savannah is dealing with the pressure of being the captain and the constant criticism of her mother, who was also a Hellcat in her day. Alice is struggling to deal with her own insecurities and is threatened by Marti's arrival on the squad.

Overall, "A World Full of Strangers" sets the stage for a season of drama, competition, and personal growth for the Hellcats and their new addition, Marti.