Ep 3. College Kids

In the season 4 episode 3 of The West Wing, titled "College Kids", the show takes a closer look at the escalating crisis in the Middle East, as tensions between Israel and Syria come to a head. As the situation in the region worsens, the White House is forced to deal with the consequences of their actions and consider further intervention to prevent war.

Meanwhile, several members of the administration are distracted by personal matters. Josh (Bradley Whitford) tries to connect with a group of college students who are protesting against the government's lack of action on Sudan, while Toby (Richard Schiff) struggles with his own feelings of inadequacy as he helps his ex-wife try to save a struggling nonprofit organization.

The episode also features a subplot involving CJ (Allison Janney), who finds herself in an awkward position when she accidentally schedules a press briefing at the same time as a previously scheduled briefing by the CIA. As she tries to navigate the situation, CJ must navigate a minefield of rapidly changing alliances and shifting loyalties within the intelligence community.

Throughout the episode, The West Wing continues to showcase its trademark blend of smart, snappy dialogue and complex political machinations. The show's talented ensemble cast is in top form here, as they juggle a multitude of storylines and character arcs with grace and precision. Whether dealing with matters of national security, personal relationships, or bureaucratic infighting, the characters of The West Wing remain compelling and engaging, leaving viewers invested in their lives and struggles.

Ultimately, "College Kids" is an excellent example of why The West Wing remains one of the most beloved and critically acclaimed shows of its era. With its deft blend of politics, drama, and humor, the show expertly navigates the complex issues facing the United States in the early 2000s, offering audiences a nuanced, insightful look at the challenges of governing in a rapidly changing world.

Fans of The West Wing will find much to enjoy in this episode, as the show continues to build on its impressive legacy of smart, thought-provoking storytelling. And for newcomers to the show, "College Kids" is a great entry point, offering a glimpse into the world of The West Wing and introducing viewers to the show's rich, complex world of characters and ideas.