This is the reason why we have notions like "I can't marry him or her, they're not my level, I need someone with a higher level" and the person who is even talking has no level at all.
To be honest, I don't think there's anything wrong with being affiliated with what you stand to gain, (we all do this) I only find it very wrong when you try to be friends with people because of the benefit you might shortly enjoy. Be a colleague, or affiliate, but don't call yourself a friend.

Unfortunately even bigger people now see the discrimination and they already know these people are close to them because of what they have to offer.