That's item 1 from my list. I should have said "scholarship committee." I think it's still build-up though. He hasn't hit his low point in the car yet. I think the moment of transformation happens during the hearing - that's why he switches tactics, says he'll do everything he can to uphold the name McGill, then five minutes later can't contain his self-praise for his own charisma and mentions he'll be using a different name.