Maria grew up in a low-income neighborhood and attended underfunded schools. Despite her hard work, she struggles to secure a scholarship for college while her peers from wealthier backgrounds have multiple offers. Which of the following best explains the disparity in opportunities for Maria compared to her peers?

Maria's situation highlights how socioeconomic status can greatly affect opportunities for education and advancement. Growing up in a low-income neighborhood often means that schools have fewer resources, such as experienced teachers, extracurricular activities, and college counseling services. This lack of support can make it harder for students like Maria to excel academically or to stand out in scholarship applications. For example, while her wealthier peers may have access to private tutoring or specialized programs, Maria might not have those same options, putting her at a disadvantage. Ultimately, the disparities in funding and resources create a gap in opportunities that can be challenging to overcome.