During the evacuation of the Japanese from the West Coast, many Nisei students had their collegiate studies interrupted. Once in the internment camps, the only way for the students to resume their studies was through schools East of the exclusion area. Many of the students applied to schools all over the country, but were turned away for various reasons. One of the most common excuses used against Nisei students was that the schools had already met their quota for Japanese students.

Among the other schools where Nisei students applied, Nebraska stood out because of their willingness to accept Nisei students from the camps. With the help of Chancellor Chauncey S. Boucher, over 100 Nisei students enrolled at the University of Nebraska- Lincoln between 1942 and 1945.

The students were hesitant to go to Nebraska at first because the state seemed so foreign to them. They also feared the racism against Japanese-Americans that was so prominent during World War II. Upon arriving in Lincoln, the Nisei students quickly grew comfortable with the city after many of the community members welcomed them with open arms. Reverend Robert Drew and his family were particularly helpful and understanding of the plight of the Nisei students. Rev. Drew and his family helped out immensely when it came time to acclimate the Nisei students to their new homes in Lincoln, Nebraska. His family helped the students find places to live, jobs, and other community groups to help them adjust to their new life in Nebraska. Along with Rev. Drew, many UNL faculty members provided help and support for the newly arrived Nisei students.

The acceptance of so many Nisei students to the University of Nebraska represented a place of hope for the students. It was a place that tore down the racist boundaries and accepted the Nisei as American students, not foreign enemies.