“Sex Lives of College Girls” - Season 3, Episode 1 Review

The Mindy Kaling and Justin Noble comedy that follows four girls throughout their journey in college is back. As season three begins, we pick up in their sophomore year with plenty of unresolved questions from the dramatic season two finale.

The biggest curiosity, however, surrounds the show’s future without Renée Rapp, who plays Leighton. Her departure is going to leave a noticeable void, and it will be intriguing to see how the writers address the absence of such a beloved character and actress.

The first episode wastes no time diving into the action. After Bela (Amrit Kaur) decided to transfer at the end of last season, the episode begins with her being informed that her GPA is too low for admissions elsewhere. Her only option? Stay at Essex and focus on improving her grades.

The episode’s central conflict revolves around Whitney (Alyah Chanelle Scott) and Kimberly (Pauline Chalamet). Whitney is still upset after catching Kimberly kissing her ex-boyfriend, Canaan (Christopher Meyer), and lying about it. Their fractured friendship has even driven Whitney to move into her sorority house instead of rooming with the other girls.

However, after being forced by Bela, the two are thrown into a frat basement closet, where they finally hash things out.

The heartfelt reconciliation reminds us of how much they missed each other, though the resolution feels a bit rushed and it seems like the writers wanted to be done with this plot point. A slower buildup to Kimberly earning back Whitney’s trust would have added more depth.

Kimberly and Canaan ultimately decide to break up, realizing they work better as friends and coworkers. Kimberly’s lingering guilt about her friendship with Whitney also plays a role in their split.

A standout moment comes during a party scene, where “Super Graphic Ultra Modern Girl” by Chappell Roan plays, a song that just feels perfectly in sync with the show’s vibe.

Leighton takes center stage in this episode, delivering closure for her character’s departure. Due to Essex’s lack of advanced math classes and her girlfriend Alicia (Midori Francis) leaving to go to Boston, she decides to transfer to MIT.

Fans will be sad to see her go, but at least her exit feels organic and keeps her love story intact.

Meanwhile, Bela decides to become the freshman RA, hoping to guide new students and help them avoid her past mistakes.

Overall, the episode strikes a balance between tying up loose ends from season two and setting the stage for what’s to come. The humor, as always, is sharp and on point.

Leighton’s departure will undoubtedly leave a gap—her vibrant personality and iconic coming-out scene with Kimberly remain highlights of the series. Still, fans can take comfort knowing Renée Rapp is thriving in her music career, prioritizing her passions.

This premiere proves the show can adapt, even in the face of significant changes, and leaves us excited for what lies ahead.

Rating: 4/5

Madison Rush is a third-year majoring in public relations. To contact her, email mkr5957@psu.edu.