My junior year of high school I decided to take AP United States History. Notoriously difficult, the class involved piles of reading and was taught by ex-football coach and school legend, Jack Dunn. Mr. Dunn was an intimidating guy, carrying around a yardstick and telling stories about Teddy Roosevelt as if he'd lived through the era. He held a wealth of knowledge, not just about history, but about life in general, and remains one of the best educators I've ever met. Here are some of his Dunnisms:

1. "It's hard, but It's not impossible"

Although this sounds like a reflection of the class itself, these words were shouted while kids were taking a test during a fire drill--kneeling in the mud and chasing papers in the wind. Life's going to the throw you curveballs, and although it may be easy to make up excuses, Mr. Dunn showed us that fighting through these obstacles makes you a stronger person.

2. "The test waits for no one"

Be it the AP test or a job interview, you're going to be presented with opportunities. However, they're not going to wait around for you to take advantage of them. Snow days, sick days, life keeps moving. In the real world, you get one shot to prove yourself, and if you're not prepared, you may not get a second chance. Life is coming at you at full speed, best take it by the horns.

3. "There are two sides to every story"

Recent curriculum changes in North Carolina question the motives of the AP US History standards, calling them "anti-American". The course did rightfully criticize American slavery, imperialism, and certain war efforts, providing students with a balanced world view. Although some rejected this, Mr. Dunn urged to see things from an objective perspectives and learn about all sides of an issue, be it the Vietnam War or conflicts in our own lives.

4. "Speak softly and carry a big stick"

Originally a Teddy Roosevelt quote referring to foreign policy, Mr. Dunn constantly reminded us to back up our words with meaningful actions. I also think he just liked carrying around a stick, to be honest.

5. "Today is a great day for history"

Each day holds potential, and Mr. Dunn never failed to remind us of this. Some of history's most pivotal moments came from the actions of one person in one instance. Every day we have the opportunity to change the world, it's just up to us to make the right decisions.

Mr. Dunn inspired in me a love for history and for that I can never repay him. Our class became a family, and he was the glue that held us together. He always said he would write a book, and if you're reading this Mr. Dunn, I'm going to hold you to that.