Rory Gilmore receives her much-anticipated college acceptance letters in Season 3, Episode 21, entitled “Here Comes the Son,” of the beloved television series Gilmore Girls. This pivotal moment marks a significant turning point in Rory’s life, setting the stage for her departure from Stars Hollow and entry into the world of higher education.
The Anticipation and the Revelation
The episode “Here Comes the Son” is steeped in dramatic tension as Rory awaits decisions from Harvard, Yale, and Princeton, the three universities she has poured her heart and soul into targeting. The episode title itself hints at a major event, referring to Jess Mariano’s father’s sudden arrival in Stars Hollow. However, the college acceptance storyline remains a central, palpable source of anxiety for Rory, Lorelai, and the entire town.
The moment arrives unexpectedly. While Luke is busy dealing with his nephew Jess’s family drama, Lorelai discovers the acceptance letters tucked amongst the day’s mail. The iconic Gilmore girls then share a whirlwind of emotions – excitement, relief, and a touch of bittersweet sadness – as they open each envelope.
The Schools and the Decisions
Rory is accepted into all three of her dream schools: Harvard, Yale, and Princeton. While Harvard had been her lifelong aspiration, dating back to her childhood, the episode meticulously explores her growing attachment to the idea of attending Yale, a school closer to home and increasingly appealing due to its proximity to Lorelai. The choice between these prestigious institutions forms the core of the episode’s emotional arc. Ultimately, while she receives all the good news, the weight of this enormous decision quickly settles in.
FAQ: Decoding Rory’s College Journey
Here are some frequently asked questions surrounding Rory Gilmore’s college acceptance and the events leading up to and following this monumental moment:
1. Why was Harvard Rory’s dream school?
Harvard was Rory’s dream school primarily because of its prestige and its academic reputation. From a young age, she was exposed to its legacy and perceived it as the ultimate goal for achieving her intellectual aspirations. The series emphasizes how deeply rooted this ambition was within her.
2. What were the factors that made Yale appealing to Rory?
Yale offered several advantages that made it an attractive alternative to Harvard. Firstly, its proximity to Stars Hollow allowed Rory to maintain a close relationship with Lorelai and her community. Secondly, Yale possessed a strong journalism program, aligning with Rory’s career ambitions. Lastly, Lorelai’s support for Yale and the presence of her grandparents in Hartford contributed to its appeal.
3. Did Rory actually visit all the colleges she applied to?
Yes, Gilmore Girls dedicates episodes to Rory’s college visits. We see her visit Harvard with Lorelai, experiencing the vibrant campus life. She also tours Yale, where she connects with its architecture and academic environment. While the series doesn’t depict a full visit to Princeton, it’s implied that she had explored the campus previously.
4. What happened to Rory’s Chilton classmates and their college aspirations?
Many of Rory’s Chilton classmates, like Paris Geller, also applied to Ivy League schools. Paris, fiercely competitive, initially experiences rejection from Harvard, leading to a significant emotional crisis. Eventually, she gains admission to Yale, where she continues her academic pursuits alongside Rory. Other classmates are seen discussing their college acceptances, highlighting the pressure and competitive atmosphere of Chilton.
5. How did Lorelai react to Rory’s acceptances?
Lorelai’s reaction was overwhelmingly positive and supportive. She shared in Rory’s excitement and pride, recognizing the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. While Lorelai initially favored Harvard, she ultimately respected Rory’s decision to choose Yale, emphasizing her daughter’s autonomy and happiness.
6. How did Rory afford Yale?
The cost of Yale was a significant concern for Lorelai, who struggled financially. However, Rory’s grandparents, Richard and Emily Gilmore, stepped in to cover the tuition, providing Rory with the opportunity to attend Yale without financial burden. This act, while generous, also came with strings attached, reigniting complex family dynamics.
7. What was the impact of Rory’s decision on Stars Hollow?
Rory’s acceptance into an Ivy League school brought immense pride to Stars Hollow. The townspeople viewed her as a symbol of success and celebrated her achievement with enthusiasm. Her departure marked a significant change for the community, highlighting the bittersweet reality of watching a beloved member pursue her dreams beyond the familiar setting.
8. Did Rory face any challenges adjusting to college life?
Yes, Rory faced several challenges adapting to college life at Yale. She initially struggled to find her footing academically, encountering more rigorous coursework and demanding professors. She also grappled with feelings of isolation and homesickness, missing the close-knit community of Stars Hollow.
9. What role did Jess Mariano play in Rory’s college decision?
Jess Mariano, Rory’s on-again, off-again boyfriend, played a subtle yet significant role in her college journey. He consistently encouraged her intellectual pursuits and instilled in her a sense of independence. His presence, although sporadic, influenced her decision to prioritize her academic goals and pursue higher education.
10. How did attending Yale shape Rory’s future career path?
Yale provided Rory with invaluable opportunities and experiences that shaped her future career path. She interned at the Stamford Eagle Gazette, gaining practical journalism experience. Her involvement in the Yale Daily News honed her writing and editing skills, preparing her for a career in journalism.
11. Were there any scholarships or financial aid involved in Rory’s college journey?
While Rory’s grandparents largely funded her Yale experience, the topic of scholarships and financial aid is indirectly touched upon in the series. The primary focus remains on Richard and Emily’s financial contribution. It’s implied that other students at Yale likely benefited from various forms of financial assistance.
12. What is the significance of Rory choosing Yale over Harvard in the context of the entire series?
Rory’s decision to choose Yale over Harvard represents a shift in her priorities. It signifies her growing independence from her grandparents’ expectations and her increasing emphasis on personal fulfillment and connection. Choosing Yale demonstrated her willingness to prioritize relationships and proximity to her mother, highlighting the importance of family in her life. It also opens up the storyline to explore different aspects of her personality and growth throughout her college years.