GPA question! is rising trend < solid gpa?

<p>does usc look favorably upon a rising trend in GPA over the course of a HS career? which year do they begin looking at your GPA? (i heard some colleges start with 9th grade..some from the second semester of 10th grade).</p>

<p>also, if not usc, which colleges DO like a rising trend?</p>

<p>please help! thanks :)</p>

<p>p.s. if you can tell me anything helpful about how to get into usc (what to do before the application process, things to spice up the apps, etc) PLEASE TELL! very nervous junior here.</p>