FOSSI: Tell us a bit about yourself.
My name is McKayla Joy Hatchell. I prefer to be called Joy. I recently graduated Summa Cum Laude from Reagan High School in San Antonio, TX. During my high school years, I was actively involved in several extracurricular activities and I also worked part-time at Baskin-Robbins. My school activities included being a member of the National Honor Society and the Girl's Track team. I enjoy art and have participated in a district-wide annual art competition for the past 4 years. My extracurricular activities include being the president of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) San Antonio City Wide Jr. Chapter, and I’ve held multiple positions since the 8th grade. Through NSBE Jr., I have participated in several competitions, activities, and I've met many successful STEM professionals. I am also a member of the U.N. Foundation Girl Up club where we participate in community service events such as 
packing meals for the people of Ukraine and putting together snack packs for local elementary school kids.
Additionally, I serve as a member of the Texas Alliance for Minorities in Engineering. My team met twice a month during the school year to prepare for an annual engineering design competition and we came in 2nd place. I am also a member of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. GEMS youth program, a national program to enrich the lives of young women by participating in various programs and community service efforts throughout the year. I am looking forward to attending NCA&T.
FOSSI: Why are you passionate about pursuing a degree in a STEM-related field?
STEM-related topics have always intrigued me ever since I was a little kid. I’ve always wanted to know how things work and whether I could make something or figure something out. I have participated in several engineering programs in the past and I really enjoy the hands-on activities that teach me analytical and problem-solving skills. I also enjoy collaborations where I use technology to build something or solve a problem. One of these projects was for the Future City competition where I worked with a team of girls to build an underwater city. This project helped introduce me to planning a project, taught me trial and error with executing the project, showed me how to readjust the goals based on the team’s capability, and enhanced my communication with the team. From this experience, I learned valuable skills in collaborating with others to complete projects.
FOSSI: Who is a role model that has influenced you?
As one of the few African-Americans in my accelerated classes and usually the only African-American female, I recognize the importance of studying with other students from different backgrounds. I believe
I offer a positive impact to other students and even to my teachers when I represent my culture, ethnicity and my gender. I was very proud when Senator Kamala Harris ran for vice president of the United States. We are both from Oakland, CA and she attended the same college as my mom. I felt like I could relate to her on some levels. When I see how other girls and people of color look up to her, it shows me the power of positive influence. My success will benefit me, but, more importantly, it will help others see what positive things can happen with hard work. Just as Vice President Kamala Harris inspires girls like me, I hope to one day be a source of inspiration for girls who are coming up under me.
FOSSI: Share a few fun facts about yourself.
My favorite super hero to draw is Batman.
Hear more from Joy about why attending an HBCU is important to her.
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