Classes
Connected: The Science and Practice of Building Friendship (6 Weeks Online)
Friendship is a practice and doesn’t happen magically on its own. Decades of research show that the single most important factor for a healthier and happier life is good relationships. Yet in our busy, digital world, the difficulty of sustaining close ties fuels a loneliness epidemic.
This course blends evidence-based findings from psychology and social science with practical exercises designed to help participants build stronger, more meaningful relationships. We’ll explore the science and skill of building friendship—such as likeability, reciprocity, affection, and vulnerability—within a supportive cohort. You’ll learn how to have conversations that engage and connect and practice exercises to build closeness. Each session begins with a brief lecture followed by self-assessments, breakout rooms, and in-depth group discussion. You’ll set a weekly goal, apply it between sessions, and return to reflect and refine. You’ll leave with a personalized connection plan and the skills to grow friendships that can make life longer, healthier, and more fulfilling.
Start Date
Time
Oct 5, 2026 (6 Mondays)
Duration
6 weeks
6:30 - 8 PM
Format
Online
The Science of Great Conversations
(4 Weeks)
Why do some conversations seem painful and clunky while others are energizing and fun? Having meaningful, enjoyable conversations is essential to connecting with others, building relationships, and thriving in a world of increasing isolation. No one is born a great conversationalist; conversation is a skill that can be learned and practiced.
In this fun, highly interactive 4-week class, we will learn the science of conversation and how to make conversations flow, move beyond small talk, build relationships and be more enjoyable. We’ll engage in skill-building exercises and learn from each other in a supportive environment. Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, at work or a party, you will leave the class with new perspectives and skills to better connect with people in your life.
Instructor Tony Shen helps people cultivate stronger friendships through his Friendship Lab taught at UC Berkeley’s Othering and Belonging Institute and Stanford Continuing Studies. He also teaches and performs improv theater throughout the Bay Area. Tony holds a BA in Economics from Stanford University and an MBA from the UC Berkeley Haas School of Business.
Date
Oct 7, 2026 (4 Wednesdays)
Time
7 - 8:30PM
Duration
4 weeks
Format
In person
Past Classes
Do you want more and deeper friendships? In this class, we will learn research-based approaches to making and strengthening friendships. We will apply these approaches in our lives during the week then return to class to discuss, learn from, and support each other to develop our friendship skills. Sessions will include techniques, self-assessments, friend plans, and discussion. By the end of the class, we will be more able to create and build friendships to live happier, longer lives.
Start Date
Mar 16, 2026
Time
7-8:30 PM
The Science and Art of Conversation
Why do some conversations seem painful and clunky while others are energizing and fun? Having meaningful, enjoyable conversations is essential to connecting with others, building relationships, and thriving in a world of increasing isolation. Yet conversation skills are rarely examined or taught. In this 4-week class, we will gain a better understanding of what makes conversation work. We will learn insights from the latest research, engage in skill-building activities and applied improv exercises, and discuss our own patterns and experiences in a fun, supportive environment. Whether you’re an introvert or extrovert, at work or a party, you will leave the class with new perspectives and skills to better connect with people in your life.
Date
Sept 8, 2026
Time
7:00-8:30 PM