Ep 2. The Day Alex Left for College

The Day Alex Left for College is the second episode of the seventh season of the popular American television show, Modern Family. The show is a mockumentary-style sitcom that follows three families, each with their unique quirks, living in Los Angeles. The particular episode revolves around the departure of the eldest Dunphy child, Alex, as she heads off to start her college career.

As Alex packs up her belongings and prepares to leave the family home, her parents, Claire and Phil, struggle to come to terms with the reality of their eldest daughter "flying the nest." Claire is adamant that they make the most of Alex's final day at home, but Phil dispels this notion, stating that they have the rest of their lives to see her. Unbeknownst to Claire, Phil has a surprise planned for Alex, which he plans to reveal once she's left. However, due to circumstances beyond their control, the family is forced to say their goodbyes much earlier than anticipated.

Meanwhile, Jay and Gloria are still negotiating the terms of their prenuptial agreement. They engage in a series of humorous misunderstandings and miscommunications as they try to ensure that both parties are protected financially. However, their disagreements also reveal their deep love for each other as they make a touching commitment to always put their family first, no matter what.

The tension between Mitchell and his sister Claire also runs high in this episode. Mitchell is feeling let down since Claire has failed to show the same level of enthusiasm for his new job as he did for her daughter starting college. Claire, in turn, is feeling overwhelmed and resentful as she juggles the responsibilities of running her own company with her emotions regarding Alex's departure. The siblings eventually come to a resolution, but not before some heated exchanges which remind viewers of the familiarity and love that exists between them, despite their differences.

Overall, the episode's themes of loss, growth, and family love provide a reflective and heart-warming tone to this chapter in the series. Viewers who have grown to love the characters and their unique personalities will appreciate the humor, wit, and good-natured banter that is trademark to the show. Though the premise may seem simple, the episode beautifully captures the essence of family ties and the complexities of individual growth within them.