So I started digging into the literature and was so surprised to learn that we actually have over 60 years of research showing that how a place is built can impact how easily these social ties can form. My goodness, does that really have anything to do with architecture? How in the world could this possibly relate? That's what really fuels me and brings me the most joy. I realized the most important thing for me are the relationships in my life my friends, my family. So, I thought about it and thought about it. The assignment was to ‘dig deep’ and find what's most important to you in life and what brings you the most joy and happiness in life and apply that to architecture in some way. Jennifer: I was attending the Boston Architectural College, and it was time for our degree project. I'm very curious how you got interested in this topic.
Nichole: I would love to start out with your journey.
Nichole: Jennifer, thank you so much for joining me today on the podcast I am incredibly excited to be having this conversation with you! Visit to learn more….now, onto my interview with Jennifer Ierymenko. She continues to engage with students, industry professionals, and the general public to facilitate putting these concepts into practice through speaking engagements, educational programs, and community development programs. Jennifer developed the Social Score guidelines and inventory tool while completing a Bachelor of Design Studies program from the Boston Architectural College and was honored to receive a Commendation of Excellence for this work. Social Score also supports building practices and policies that promote social connection. Jennifer is the founder of Social Score (a nonprofit organization that educates the general public about the importance of social connection and the role of the built environment in forming social ties. Today I’m talking with Jennifer Ierymenko. Hi, I’m your host Nichole Kain and you’re listening to the Home and Place Podcast where I translate theory to practice and create cross-discipline conversations about aging and the importance of place.