I looked at the common data set and “applicant interest” is considered but not one of the more important criteria. After the college guidance meeting and the lack of encouragement to apply to this particular school I am sure other students have taken it off their lists. As for interviews they are suggested and but can be scheduled on campus.
Our daughter will have to decide if this is her be all school and we will suggest she meet with the regional rep this fall once he/she is in town.
Having a “be all” dream school is not a good idea, since it can lead to a huge let-down if she is not admitted or it is too expensive.
@ucbalumnus I should clarify “be all school” is a designation in our family of the one school you plan to use your EA/ED card. The reality is many schools offering an ED route are reaches/dream schools and are treated as such. Fortunately, her grades/test scores give her auto admit to some great schools that if the “dream” does not work out she would be very happy attending. As long as a student recognizes what the playing field is it is ok to dream a bit. 
Is this a real thing?