John-Boy applies for an NYA job at the university library. The NYA, or National Youth Administration, was a New Deal agency that focused on providing work and education for Americans between the ages of 16 and 25. As a part-time job, John-Boy could expected to be paid $10 to $25 a month.
When Bobby Bigelow learns that Jason had spent the night at Betsy's house he jokes, "That boy's blue moon has turned to gold!" He may be referencing "When My Blue Moon Turns to Gold Again," a country song by Wiley Walker and Gene Sullivan released in 1941.
The title of this episode, in addition to alluding to Jason's physical breakdown due to overwork, is also a musical term. A breakdown is a popular musical style particularly in bluegrass, notable examples being Earl Scruggs' "Foggy Mountain Breakdown" and Bill Monroe's "Bluegrass Breakdown".
Second of only two appearances of Jason's friend Betsy Morgan.