Connected: The Science and Practice of Building Friendship

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.