@BenGuan Hi Ben, I am a freshman at USC Thornton and I have somewhat of an idea of the kind of students that they take.
First of all, although I’m in jazz studies and not the popular music program, the students I know in popular music are some of the most talented, kind, fun, and hardworking people I have ever met. The faculty and program seem amazing so you’re definitely looking at one of the right places.
With your GPA, it is possible but extremely difficult to gain admission to Thornton. I have some (but not many) classmates with <3.5 GPAs but it’s usually very clear why they’re here. With lower stats, you have to be an outstanding player with major achievements or have an strong legacy connection.
If you can get your GPA to 3.6 or above, gaining admission to Thornton is still very difficult but your stats would be more typical of the average Thornton student. If you could get a high SAT (1400+) with a 3.6+ GPA, you’d be in little better of a position. Unfortunately you still would most likely not qualify for any merit aid even if your audition went amazing, as large university scholarships generally go to students with 3.9+ UW GPA and 1500+ SAT.
Here’s another tip: I don’t know if this is the case for popular music, but for Thornton jazz studies at least, your attitude during the audition means A LOT. I have seen them reject amazing players from the program if they don’t come off as humble, respectful, and excited to learn. I would imagine this applies to the rest of Thornton too, as I haven’t met a student yet with a bad attitude.
In general though, make sure you have a good relationship with the program before you even audition. Show interest by writing to faculty members, sitting in on classes, or even requesting a Skype lesson from a professor. I took lessons with Alan Pasqua, the professor I cutrently study privately with before my audition. He appreciated the dedication I showed to him and to Thornton and I have no doubt this was one of the reasons I was accepted.
PM if you have any additional questions. Good luck.