You’ve been in touch with your favorite college – but not via admissions. Will the school count this toward your level of interest? The Dean checks in. https://www.collegeconfidential.com/articles/does-contact-with-departments-beyond-admissions-count-toward-demonstrated-interest/
Again, the best way to demonstrate interest is to submit an app that matches what they want and nails the Why Us. No matter visits, contact, or mailing lists, if you’re truly interested you understand your match, right? That’s to what they look for, not just what you want.