If staying DT, be sure to factor in the higher cost of parking, which can approach $50 per night at the Bonaventure (not sure about the LA Sheraton).

If staying on the Westside (Westwood or Santa Monica) , take Olympic Boulevard east to Vermont, then south to the campus (picking up the route that Colin laid out). Experiencing a commute in real time may give your son an idea about the wisdom (or lack of wisdom) of living far off-campus if he picks USC.