"Leveling the Playing Field for Everyone"
ABOUT US
FACT
The share of first‑generation students in U.S. colleges declined from about 66% in 1996 to 53% in 2020, even as many still face information, access, and affordability barriers to a degree.
WHAT IS KNOW?
KNOW, or Keys to Navigating Our World, is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting first-generation, immigrant, and underrepresented students by creating affirming spaces, fostering peer-to-peer mentorship, and offering academic, personal, and professional development.
KNOW HAS HELPED OVER 200 STUDENTS AND LED OVER 10 EVENTS WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF OVER 50 ADVISORS
RESOURCES
In-Person & Online
KNOW is dedicated to providing resources for first-generation, immigrant and underrepresented students. Join one of our events at any of our University chapters!
View Resources
KNOW AT UM-D
FACT
Students who participate in structured peer‑mentoring programs earn higher average grades and show better retention and attendance than similar students who do not participate.
KNOW AT UMICH
As of Fall 2025, KNOW has expanded to 3 campuses!
KNOW AT WAYNE STATE
FACT
First-generation students are less likely to finish a bachelor’s degree within six years than continuing-generation students, even after adjusting for background and preparation.
ARTICLES
Creating the KNOW Website
Abdu Tello · March 7, 2026
A behind-the-scenes look at how we built knownonprofit.org — a fully custom website designed to serve our community without requiring a developer on call.
The Opportunity Gap No One Talks About
KNOW · March 7, 2026
It's not just about money. The real gap facing first-generation and immigrant students is one of information, access, and unspoken knowledge — and it's wider than most people realize.
Resume Ready: A No-Fluff Guide to Building a Resume That Actually Gets You Interviews
Abdu Tello · March 7, 2026
Your resume is your first impression — and most people are making avoidable mistakes. Here's everything you need to know to build one that gets past the bots and impresses real humans.