Am I a solid candidate for USC?

From: Washington
GPA: 3.5
Weighted:3.85
SAT:1450
EC’s: Varsity football and basketball (captain for basketball team). Selected into school leadership. Fundraised for school. Worked with eagle scout to build green house for neighborhood in need. Worked with local food bank to bring healthier foods into school pantry. Coached youth basketball. Volunteered with VBS.
Work: Manager for work crew. (Hired by several companies).
Bookkeeping for local business
Manager with vacation rental business.
AP Classes: 10
Honor Classes:7

USC is my first choice. I love the environment and the people. Looking to go into business. Any feedback is much appreciated:)

3.5 is low, but SAT is good. I’d call it a reach.

Which school? they are not all created equal:
But 3.5/3.85 makes it a reach. Depends a bit on what SC knows/thinks about your HS. For some local LA schools that are known to have rigorous programs, USC has been known to be a bit more forgiving in GPA, but they get more competitive each year. I’d say not impossible, but make sure you have good safe choices as well.

My high school is ranked in the top 25 in WA.

It would probably come down to how passionate you seemed about USC in your supplements.

If they have a decent history with USC, that should help too. Any Alumni connections you can leverage is likely to help. USC is very serious about its alumni network and it can be a way of showing a real passion for the school.

Were you able to get an interview? Make sure you get your application in before Dec. and work hard on making your essays specific to USC. As @Saltypineapple notes, the more you can convey why SC is right for you and how you can contribute to the school, the better your chances.

Yes I toured there and talked to an admission consoler. I have also emailed the admission consoler specific to Washington. I’m retaking my sat and won’t get my scores back until mid December. Would when I apply effect my chances?