<p>Academically, you really can’t make a mistake–both are fine schools and you can obtain a great education at either.</p>
<p>Culturally, they are very different. NYU is large, urban and has little sense of community. The community is the Village, and if you absolutely live and breath Manhattan–you will love NYU.</p>
<p>Brandeis is small (for a research university), suburban (but only 9 miles from Boston), and is all about community. It will be much more of a traditional college experience.</p>
<p>Frankly, its silly to argue about “which is better.” They are both good–you have to decide which is a better fit for you.</p>