I have taken the MCAT twice, once in April 2004 and the second time this April.
I was a junior the first time around, and I took the TPR prep course to help me study. I remember getting a 24 or 26 on my first practice test. I was very busy with classes, but my score improved and I ended up with a 30R (10s across).
During the three years in between tests I did not take any science classes (I'm an anthro major), but I ended up with a 38O (PS 13 V 13 BS 12) after 4 months of hardcore studying. What made the difference is having more time and focusing on understanding concepts. I didn't take any prep courses, and instead I bought a bunch of books from different companies (TPR, Kaplan, & EK). Since I didn't remember anything, I had to start from the beginning. The EK science books were awesome! It was very condensed and focused on what you absolutely need to know. If I needed further clarification or details, I just turned to the other books but I mostly stuck with EK and focused on learning the basics first. Once I gained more confidence on the material, then I started learning the details.
As long as you dedicate yourself to studying and internalizing the concepts you have to know, you'll do great!
Don't give up and good luck!
