Maria has recently graduated from college and secured a job that pays well, but her family comes from a low-income background. How might Maria's situation illustrate the concept of social stratification in America?

Maria's situation shows how social stratification works in America, which is the way society is divided into different levels based on factors like income, education, and family background. Even though Maria has graduated and found a good job, her family's low-income background may still affect her opportunities and experiences. For example, she might struggle with student loans or feel pressure to support her family financially. This illustrates that while individuals can rise in their careers, their starting point and family circumstances can still influence their overall success and social mobility. Thus, social stratification is not just about how much money someone makes, but also about the advantages or challenges they face based on where they come from.