Ep 2. The Graduate

In episode 2 of season 3 of Perfect Strangers, titled "The Graduate," we join our lovable duo, Balki Bartokomous and Larry Appleton, as they navigate the ups and downs of their unique friendship and daily adventures in Chicago.

The episode kicks off with Balki returning from his night classes at the University of Chicago, where he has been diligently studying to become an American citizen. Excitedly, he informs Larry that after years of hard work, he is finally ready to take his citizenship exam. Larry shares in Balki's excitement and pledges his full support, offering to help him study and prepare for the upcoming test.

Meanwhile, Balki's girlfriend, Mary Anne, is dealing with her own set of challenges as she struggles with her career path. Feeling dissatisfied with her current job, she confides in Jennifer, Larry's girlfriend and Mary Anne's work colleague, about her growing desire to pursue a different profession. Jennifer encourages Mary Anne to follow her dreams and offers to assist her in exploring various opportunities, leaving Mary Anne feeling hopeful and motivated.

As Larry and Balki begin their study sessions, it becomes evident that Balki's unconventional learning style clashes with Larry's more structured approach. Larry employs colorful flashcards and meticulously organized notes, while Balki prefers mnemonic devices and quirky associations to help him remember the material. Despite their differences, the duo hilariously attempts to find common ground and make their study sessions as effective as possible.

Meanwhile, at the sheep-themed newspaper office where both Jennifer and Mary Anne work, Jennifer's boss, Mr. Gorpley, finds out about Mary Anne's aspirations to change careers. Seeing this as an opportunity to make Mary Anne quit and clear the way for his niece's promotion, Gorpley assigns her an overwhelming number of tasks, hoping to overwhelm and discourage her. However, Mary Anne meets this challenge head-on, displaying her determination and resilience.

Back at the apartment, Larry decides to create a mock citizenship exam for Balki to practice with a more structured approach, hoping it will help him feel more prepared. However, the intense nature of the practice test only serves to stress Balki out further, causing him to doubt his abilities. Larry realizes the error of his ways and admits that his teaching methods may not be the best fit for Balki's unique learning style. With a change of heart, Larry adjusts his approach and encourages Balki to embrace his own methods of learning, instilling a renewed sense of confidence in his friend.

During a lunch break at the office, Jennifer accidentally stumbles upon evidence that Mr. Gorpley purposely sabotaged Mary Anne in an attempt to force her out of the company. She shares this revelation with Mary Anne, who initially feels disheartened but quickly finds her determination rekindled. Together, they devise a plan to expose Gorpley's deceitful actions and bring justice to the workplace.

As the citizenship exam approaches, Balki's nerves intensify. However, with Larry's newfound support and a fresh outlook on learning, Balki enters the exam room feeling prepared and confident. Larry anxiously awaits Balki's return, hoping for good news.

"The Graduate" showcases the enduring friendship between Balki and Larry as they face challenges, embrace their differences, and help each other overcome obstacles. It highlights the importance of adapting teaching styles to accommodate individual learning preferences and the power of friendship in pursuing dreams and overcoming adversity. Tune in to find out if Balki passes his citizenship exam and if Mary Anne's plan to expose Mr. Gorpley succeeds, in this heartwarming and hilarious episode of Perfect Strangers.