Ep 1. Career Day

Welcome Back, Kotter season 2 episode 1, titled "Career Day," sees the return of the beloved character Gabe Kotter (played by Gabe Kaplan) as he prepares to teach his new class of underachievers at James Buchanan High School in Brooklyn, New York.

The episode opens with Kotter introducing his class to Career Day, an annual event where various guest speakers are invited to the school to talk about their professions. The students are initially uninterested, but Kotter uses his humor and charisma to persuade them to attend.

As the guest speakers arrive, the students begin to realize the various opportunities available to them. From a firefighter to a fashion designer, each speaker gives a unique perspective on their line of work. However, when a former student, who now runs a local pool hall, arrives to speak, Kotter is concerned.

Kotter knows that this student, Freddie "Boom-Boom" Washington (played by Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs), was previously expelled from James Buchanan High School and worries that his influence may lead the students down the wrong path. Despite Kotter's concerns, Freddie gives an inspiring speech about how he turned his life around and became a successful business owner.

As the day comes to a close, the students reflect on what they've learned and begin to envision their own futures. One student, Juan Epstein (played by Robert Hegyes), is inspired to pursue a career in law after speaking with a lawyer, while another student, Arnold Horshack (played by Ron Palillo), decides to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.

Meanwhile, Kotter receives a surprise visit from his former student, Vinnie Barbarino (played by John Travolta), who has left school to pursue a career in modeling. Vinnie is struggling to make a living and is encouraged by Kotter to continue pursuing his dreams.

Overall, "Career Day" is a heartwarming episode that reminds viewers to never give up on their dreams and to always strive for success. With its relatable characters and charming humor, Welcome Back, Kotter continues to be a beloved classic that stands the test of time.