A deep desire to help everyone and a strong faith led Christian Quigley to the Restorative Justice Program at Vermont Law School. Christian is from Boston, Massachusetts, and attended The Catholic University of America. He majored in Political Science with a double minor in Hispanic Studies and History. It was there that he first learned about the MARJ program at VLS. "Finding this school, these classes, and everyone here has made me love the program even more," he said.
Quigley is currently pursuing a joint JD/MARJ degree, and his goals are clear. "I want to use both degrees to transform our current system to help those in life less fortunate than ourselves. After taking the bar exam, I want to either return to DC and lobby for restorative justice principles in Congress, or go home to Massachusetts to reform the justice system in a DA office," he said.
He describes every moment of the program thus far as having a signficant impact on him, but especially the quote 'Hurt people, hurt people.' "It is a statement that we do not often hear, but has larger meaning than we care to take on. It is a memory imprinted in my mind that I carry with me to this day and will into the future," he said, adding that many who have been in the RJ program feel the same way.
Quigley's advice to people considering applying to the Restorative Justice program is quite simple: "Go for it. Everyone in the MARJ program roots for you in every way imaginable. They are some of the most ready and willing professors and advisors for you. MARJ is a new and intricate start up that should be getting more focus. While small now, Restorative Justice has an impact in many areas of law we study (Criminal, Environmental, etc.). Joining the MARJ was the best decision I made, and I will promote it till the end. It made an impact on my life and I hope it makes an impact on others."
"You meet some of the greatest people in your life," Quigley continued. "Friends that are present and knowing what you are going through. Professors whose doors always open, with the biggest hearts. They want what is best for you and want you to succeed. Meet with them and open up about your life, feelings, and how you are doing in school. Staff members who are willing to make sure you have a way in the world. The MARJ program is a shoulder, helping hand, and much more."