In the season premiere episode, the members of New Directions compete amongst themselves to become the next star of the glee club. During open auditions, a fresh crop of students is introduced, including Marley and Jake Puckerman, Puck's half-brother. Meanwhile, Rachel has a rocky start at NYADA and struggles to please her demanding dance teacher, Cassandra July. She also meets Brody, a handsome upperclassman.

Rachel and Kurt are caught off-guard when they get unexpected visits in New York City. Meanwhile, Santana and Brittany deal with the long distance between them, and Will and Emma disagree on a new job offer.

A love triangle heats up among Marley, Jake and Ryder, and Blaine has a run-in with the Warblers.

McKinley’s Sadie Hawkins dance offers several gleeks a rare chance to feel empowered. Sam and Blaine investigate a possible cheating scandal at Sectionals. Kurt makes a new friend at NYADA.

New Directions produces a sexy calendar to raise money for their trip to Regionals. Rachel is faced with a personal dilemma when she’s cast in a student film. Finn and Sue go toe-to-toe.

As the Prom approaches, the race for Prom Queen brings out the best and the worst in candidates Tina and Kitty. Meanwhile, Sam tries to make a connection with a new school nurse, an increasingly discouraged Rachel waits for word on her Funny Girl callback, and Santana makes a new friend at work.

The New Directions remember Finn.