Estelle LeGardeur

College Choice: Duke
College Major: Energy Engineering

Estelle LeGardeur’s Senior Mentorship titled “The Clean Energy Revolution: Investigating Hydrogen’s Role in a Net Zero Reality” was the product of her yearlong research and investigation into renewable energy solutions with a focus on green hydrogen’s role in full decarbonisation, and on point with her plans to major in Energy Engineering at Duke University this fall. Her resume personifies her passion in this field of studies. Founder of The Green Club at McGehee, member of Citizens Climate Lobby and her participation in a two-week college prep program in science and engineering studying “Climate Change in Coastal Ecosystems,” are just several examples of Estelle’s dedication and drive to seek and accomplish change in this area.

She remarked, “While I'm a little scared to take more rigorous courses at Duke, I feel confident in my learning foundation. I may not know everything I need to know, but McGehee has taught me how to ask the right questions to understand and apply new knowledge.”

Former faculty member Carolyn Thompson’s AP Government class was incredibly formative for Estelle. She wrote, “It really taught me how to think about problems and the importance of framing an issue. I also learned the complexities of balancing liberty and order in any society. I believe understanding how and why our government and society work the way they do is essential for accomplishing meaningful change. As I go to pursue a career in renewable energy and climate action, lessons from Ms. Thompson's AP Government class will stick with me.”

Estelle’s favorite tradition is May Day. She wrote, “As a sophomore, May Day was a great bonding experience for our class, and as a senior I think it reflects how close we've become with our little sister class. Community is something that is very important to me and I think May Day represents just that.”

Estelle was accepted early decision to Duke University and she had the following to say about her college choice. “Duke's interdisciplinary courses on renewable energy were ultimately what solidified it as my top choice. I knew for certain that I wanted to be involved in the renewable energy industry, but was unsure if I wanted to approach it from an engineering, economic, or political standpoint. Duke has a variety of courses and programs that allow me to really understand clean energy from every angle.

With numerous academic awards and honors throughout her years at McGehee, we know Estelle will make her mark at Duke!

Grade Started at McGehee: Pre-K
Activities and Awards at McGehee: