World War II began in September 1939, with Germany’s invasion of Poland; however, the United States did not officially become involved in the conflict until after Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941. Not surprisingly, doctors, dentists, nurses, and pharmacists were needed in large numbers to support both the war effort and the home front. To meet this unprecedented demand, UMB began offering year-round school in the fall of 1942 in all schools.