Jared’s interaction with Mr. Wilkinson is a turning point for him, as he wants make Mr. Wilkinson proud. The only way to do so, Jared acknowledges, is to avoid the alcohol that has caused his life to spiral out of control. The chip’s message becomes especially important as Jared returns to the same party that was going on earlier. Whereas before he chose to get drunk, here, he is choosing to spend his time differently—and in doing so, he may be able to regain control of his life.