After beginning his time at the University, Sammy immediately finds that he is dissatisfied with the mundanity of his school and professors, all of whom seem unexciting. The only things Sammy appreciates at the University are playing the game snooker and his girlfriend, Sterrett. However, his relationship soon grows strained, and they break up and get back together over and over again as Sterrett doesn’t understand Sammy’s dream to be an intellectual and study history, while she wants him to provide for her.  Following winter break, when Sterrett stays home with the flu, Sammy begins to play snooker with other guys, and people discover his skill in the game. He spends more time playing snooker, and in May, a popular player from Ohio comes to town. Sammy agrees to play against him, and students gather in a fraternity house, placing bets. Sammy finds himself distracted with thoughts about what to do with his future while playing the game, but after his friends’ encouragement, he wins against the popular player and all the other players in the match. After these wins, Sammy decides that snooker provides him the intellectual stimulation he has been chasing.