Classes
The Friendship Lab
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. All ages and backgrounds are warmly welcomed.
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
April 28, 2026
Time
6:30-8:30 PM
The Friendship Lab: Cultivate & Deepen Your Friendships
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. All ages and backgrounds are warmly welcomed.
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.
Start Date
May 20, 2026
Time
7:00-9:00 PM
Past Classes
Connected: The Psychology and Practice of Building Friendship
Friendship is a practice and does not happen magically on its own. Decades of research show that the single most important factor for a healthier and happier life is good relationships. This course blends evidence-based findings from psychology and social science with practical, fun exercises to help you create and strengthen friendships. We’ll explore the science and importance of building friendship—mutuality, affection, and vulnerability—within a supportive learning cohort. Each session begins with a brief lecture followed by self-assessments, discussions, and exercises. You’ll set a small weekly goal (such as reconnecting with a lapsed friend or joining a new group), 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 make life longer, healthier, and more fulfilling.
Start Date
Jan 26, 2026
Duration
6 weeks
Time
6:30 - 8 PM
Format
Online
The Friendship Lab
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
Duration
5 weeks
Time
7-8:30 PM
Format
In-Person