I'm a 20 year old female. my orthodontist is treating me minus any extractions, and creating space via widening of "hatch". will this widen my jaws?

Palatal expansion?: I assume you mean palatal expansion. Yes, it will widen your jaw. Should not be enough to negatively affect appearance. Ask orthodontist.

Maxillary expansion: is often indicated when the upper jaw is too narrow and a cross-bite. Expansion is a great treatment method for the right case and it sounds like your malocclusion fits the bill and it sounds like you're in good hands.

Hatch?: Jaw widening is warranted if upper jaw is narrower than lower. Surgical assistance may be warranted. Unfortunately there are some non-Orthodotisrs who attempt jaw widening for the wrong reasons, or with disregard of physiologic principals. Make sure you are seeing a fully qualified Orthodontic Specialist for optimum care.