USC is my number one choice (as I’m sure it is for many). Would it be appropriate to just to be straightforward and tell them in one of the supplemental essays that USC is my top choice? Would it help significantly? I’m already an above average applicant SAT-wise and grade-wise.
By listening to the Admissions Counselors themselves, you may be able to gain a sense for what they are looking for or expect to see. I know that they claim to not consider “demonstrated interest”, but in reality, you would think that they prefer to admit those who are committed to attending if admitted.