The S.T.A.R.S. An Examination of Kent State University’s Academic S.T.A.R.S. Program Kendra Rose Hughley Khughle4@kent.edu Advisor: Mwatabu Okantah, mokantah@kent.edu Associate Professor, Department of Pan African Studies, Kent State University Abstract As a result of obtaining knowledge of ancestral history, a person’s cultural identity is developed and nurtured. Cultural identity enhances an individual's self-esteem, sense of belonging and can expand their engagement with others. For college students, this is imperative because there are various types of people and cultures on campus. For students of color at a predominately White institution, cultural enrichment is vital. For the past two summers, I have assisted with documenting two, academic Summer cultural-enrichment-programs. The S.T.A.R.S. Programs at Kent State University and at West Virginia University, provide incoming freshmen of color the opportunity to prepare for college. Through rigorous academic coursework and historic cultural practices, such as drumming, dancing, and introduction to Akan protocols, students reported feeling academically prepared and culturally enriched, with a strong sense of self-awareness and confidence. The upshot of this research examines the effects of academic preparation and insight of ancestral history on freshman of color, participating in both Academic S.T.A.R.S. Programs. The research was conducted through the obtainment of both quantitative and qualitative results (retention rates, graphs, interviews, testimonials etc.)