Upcoming Classes and Programs
The Friendship Lab (Workshop)
April 28, 2026
Provocation Theater
The 85-year Harvard Study of Adult Development identified the most important factor for physical health, mental health and longevity - good relationships. Drawing on research from Harvard and UC Berkeley, we will learn science-based approaches to making and strengthening friendships. Whether you want more activity buddies or a close friend to share your innermost thoughts, we will learn how to cultivate better friendships. This cultivation is a set of skills that can be learned and a practice we choose every day. The workshop includes exercises, techniques and discussions within a supportive, fun environment.
The Friendship Lab (Workshop)
May 20, 2026
Improv Central
The 85-year Harvard Study of Adult Development identified the most important factor for physical health, mental health and longevity - good relationships. Drawing on research from Harvard and UC Berkeley, we will learn science-based approaches to making and strengthening friendships. Whether you want more activity buddies or a close friend to share your innermost thoughts, we will learn how to cultivate better friendships. This cultivation is a set of skills that can be learned and a practice we choose every day. The workshop includes exercises, improv-related lessons and open discussions within a supportive, fun environment.
Why does friendship matter?
According to an 85-year study at Harvard, the number one key to happiness is not diet exercise, or career success. It's positive social relationships. It's friendship.
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Lacking social connection increases premature death as much as smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day
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Having strong social relationships lowers mortality risk by about 50%
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Quality relationships are the #1 predictor of happiness and health
Can I "learn friendship"?
Absolutely! Humans are wired to learn and connect. Forming social connections was a survival imperative as groups are more able to care for each other and make it through difficult times. Modern life, technology and circumstances have made relationships more challenging, but friend-making skills and habits can be learned and practiced.
About
My name is Tony Shen
I help people around the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond cultivate stronger friendships through my "Friendship Lab" classes and coaching. I run workshops at UC Berkeley, teach improv theater, and performs in live shows. I was a C-suite executive and consultant to Fortune 500 firms before discovering my passion for helping people build happier, more friend-filled lives. I received a BA in economics from Stanford and an MBA from UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business.
Testimonials
This was an interesting and engaging course. I appreciate the instructor's kind demeanor and open approach. The course confirmed the importance of being intentional and putting forth effort if you are interested in growing and maintaining friendships. I'd recommend it to people that want to learn more about the value of friendships and how they can be nurtured and developed.
Denise Herd, PH.D
Professor School of Public Health
Community Health Sciences Division Head
Very sweet, useful, and motivating offering! It helped me reevaluate how I show up in close friendships and adjust based on that, helped motivate me to get out of my comfort zone to make new friendships (still working on that!), and helped me feel less alone in the search for friendship by bringing me into community with others looking to deepen/create new friendships.
Staff Member
UC Berkeley Othering and Belonging Institute