Desigrrl,
Everything you said in your post circled around money. I would wait and hear about offers from Harvard and NYU and then make your decision. Whichever school gives you the best offer, take it. It is no fun being in debt, especially if you already are. Plus, those two schools are closest to home, your relationship, and they are high ranking in your field. Both are amazing schools so you would not have to worry about credentials. I hope all goes well for you! Let me know what you decide. I am kind of in the same boat. I am waiting to hear about funding before I make my decision.