Christopher Robinson, Jr., known as “Kid,” plans to attend college after his church awards him a full scholarship. “Play,” a record store manager and Kid’s musical partner, tries to discourage his friend’s educational ambitions, believing they have a bright future as rap artists. In a final effort to change Kid’s mind, Play introduces him to Sheila Landreaux, a talent scout who offers to finance the team’s demonstration recording. However, Kid declines, determined to earn his degree and satisfy his late father’s dying wish. He arrives at college later that day and meets his new roommate, Jamal, a white student obsessed with African American “hip-hop” culture. Kid’s girl friend, Sidney, also begins her college career, and shares a dormitory with Zora, a feminist who criticizes her blind devotion to Kid. Elsewhere on campus, an elderly woman named Mrs. Deevers finds employment as security guards for her three dull-witted grandsons. Meanwhile, Play convinces Sheila Landreaux of his potential as a solo act, prompting an aspiring disc jockey named Bilal to offer his services as accompanist. While registering for classes, Kid realizes he left his endorsed tuition check in Play’s car. Although Play promises to deliver the check, he loans the money to Sheila Landreaux after she claims her partner, Rick, gambled away their production funds. At the college, Kid is summoned to Dean Kramer’s office and given one more week to pay his tuition or face expulsion. When Play learns of his friend’s predicament, he tries to contact Sheila and discovers she is a fraud, known by numerous identities for swindling aspiring artists. Kid reluctantly approaches Sidney to ask for a loan from her wealthy parents. However, she assumes from Kid’s solemn tone that he wants to “see other people,” and ends their relationship. Dean Kramer’s young assistant, Miles, offers to arrange an extension on Kid’s deadline and takes the last of his money to secure the deal. Later, Kid exasperates Professor Sinclair, who teaches African American history, by consistently being late for class and failing to do his homework. The professor demands a twenty-page paper demonstrating Kid’s understanding of his reading assignments, or he will receive a failing grade. Hoping to earn tuition money, Kid finds employment in the faculty dining hall under the irascible Mr. Lee, while struggling to complete his class work. Meanwhile, Play concocts a plan to raise money for his friend by throwing a party, in which pajama-clad male students pay admission to the faculty dining hall to dance with young women in negligees. When Kid discovers that Miles has made no effort to extend his deadline, he agrees to the plan. At a political demonstration, Zora makes a speech that evolves into a rap routine, attracting the attention of Rick, who offers her a recording contract. Aware that Kid is facing expulsion, Miles uses the opportunity to make advances on Sidney. Although Sidney is flattered by the attention, Zora hints that Miles is not of good character. Word of the party spreads quickly through the campus, ensuring a large crowd. On the night of the party, Sidney dresses in emulation of Zora, who advises her to develop her own unique identity. When they arrive at the dining hall, Sidney witnesses an innocent embrace between Kid and another girl, which she mistakes for romance. Although Miles knows the truth, he pretends to agree with Sidney’s assumption, hoping to prevent the couple from reconciling. Rick also attends, accompanied by Sheila Landreaux, alias “Miriam Mobuto,” with plans to swindle Zora. The Deever boys learn about the unauthorized party and search the campus, intent on shutting it down. While performing a rap routine with Play, Kid notices Miles attempting to seduce Sidney and goes to her defense. As the Deever boys enter the party, Play exposes Sheila and Rick as swindlers. Zora punches Sheila unconscious and the Deevers pursue Rick. When Kid confronts Miles on the dining hall roof, his rival tumbles through the skylight into a large cake below. Dean Kramer enters and demands an explanation. After Play identifies Sheila, Rick, and Miles as swindlers, the dean commends the Deevers and fires Miles. He orders the partygoers to disperse and gives Kid one hour to restore the hall to its original state. Kid apologizes to his boss, Mr. Lee, and donates the proceeds from the party to cover repairs. By morning, Kid has reconciled with Sidney, but is despondent over having to leave school. Professor Sinclair is impressed with Kid’s paper and encourages him to continue his education when he is able. Play accepts responsibility for his friend’s plight and replaces the tuition money by selling his car. He now considers Kid an investment, and promises regular visits to monitor his friend’s progress.