<p>T-Mobile
S2 had T-Mobile and had no problems. </p>
<p>Skiing
Coincidently, I was just in Big Bear (Snow Summit) today. It’s about a two hour drive from USC. There was still a little snow on the ground (and it’s late May!) but no skiing. We ski there quite often, but we usually wait until December or January. They have an excellent snow-making system so if it’s cold enough, they are open for skiing. (I heard there is skiing in Mammoth this Memorial weekend! That’s about 5-6 hours from USC. It’s bigger and has more advanced runs than Big Bear/Snow Summit.) </p>
<p>I think your idea of having him bring his ski equipment after Winter Break is a good idea. If he is desperate because something comes up before that, the cost to rent is really not that bad. Maybe you could ask the ski club when they start. (BTW, FWIW- most California kids snowboard, but he won’t be out of place because there are always plenty of skiers also!)</p>