People shouldn't constantly look to trade up on relationships.
Emily has always been impressed by people with money, and it's a factor in how she chooses her partners.
Emily wants to feel good about herself.
Emily decides that making money herself is better than dating a rich guy, and she lands a well-paying job.
Emily just ditched her boyfriend for someone richer, after doing the same thing last year.
Emily's friends are impressed by her career and admire her.
Emily's friends are secretly starting to feel that she is superficial.