<p>I think it’s the combination of spirit and a campus. My impression of NYU is that you’re in New York and are taking classes at NYU, whereas with USC, you’re at USC and LA is right there. USC definitely seems to have much more of a community feeling, and more of a college feeling (though not a community college). If I’m remembering this correctly, when I toured NYU, they sounded kind of proud that they don’t have a football team, but at USC, football is one thing that sort of brings everybody together. I don’t even particularly like football, but the fact that everyone is willing to come together and support the school indicates a kind of atmosphere that I think I will enjoy. Plus you can’t beat the weather. 
In terms of the cities themselves, I much prefer New York to LA, but they’re both great places, and full of opportunities for young actors. They’re both tough, but it sounds like your son has a great deal of persistence and passion, two qualities I can only hope will help me in this difficult business.</p>