Maria comes from a family with a long history of wealth and educational attainment. She attends a prestigious university and has numerous opportunities for internships and networking. In contrast, her friend James comes from a low-income background and attends a community college with limited resources. How do their social mobility prospects differ based on their backgrounds?

Maria and James have different chances for social mobility because of their backgrounds. Maria's wealthy family likely provides her with connections, resources, and experiences that can help her succeed in her career. She has access to internships and networking opportunities that can open doors for her in the job market. In contrast, James, who comes from a low-income background, may face challenges like fewer resources and limited professional connections, making it harder for him to advance. For example, if both apply for the same job, Maria might have recommendations and experiences that give her an edge, illustrating how their backgrounds can influence their future opportunities.