This book is about more than simply building schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan. It is about relationships that have neither borders nor boundaries. It was the social ties that created a beautiful cross-cultural experience where people of different faiths, languages, and perspectives were friends, brothers, and sisters who worked together towards a common goal.

In reading Three Cups of Tea, I revisited some difficult lessons from my own international experiences. I had the privilege of living abroad as a student, Peace Corps volunteer, and humanitarian aid worker. In each instance, I had to learn the importance of trust and relationships, and how they were the key to serving in any community in this world. In hindsight, I wish I had embraced the unusual smells, tastes, habits and languages more aggressively. It is such a privilege and a blessing to be able to live in a different part of the world—let alone study or do service in that setting.

Fairfield students, you are so fortunate to attend a university that encourages an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the world in which we live. I hope this book inspires you to take courses that educate you about the world and its many languages, cultures, faiths, histories and politics. Moreover, I hope you apply that knowledge to real life opportunities such as study abroad, international service learning projects and post-graduate international service. Living abroad is one of the greatest life experiences a person can have.

Jermain Griffin
Associate Director of International Studies
Canisius Hall 302
203.254.4000, ext. 2865

Fairfield University
1073 North Benson Road
Fairfield, CT 06824-5195