ConfusedPolicyGrad

Hi Everyone, I am an international candidate from a middle-income family from South Asia. I desperately am seeking advice for graduate School and decide which program aligns well with my career goals. I have secured admissions in the following programs. UChicago - MPP - with $45K annual Funding (STEM-approved) Georgetown University - MIDP - with $30K annual funding (STEM-approved) Syracuse University - MPA - with $38K annual funding (non-STEM) Duke University - MPP - with $18K annual funding (non-STEM) Rutgers University - MSc in Public Informatics - with 55% Funding (STEM approved) Warwick University (UK) - MSc in International Development - No Funding Nottingham University (UK) - Data Analytics - No Funding London School of Economics - MPP - No Funding I want to build a career in consultancy services and development organizations as a first priority followed by roles in government institutions. I have a bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering and have the following work experience: 2.5 years of work experience in the development sector 2 years at a Think tank focusing on international relations 2 years at a production plant I can pay most of the tuition but I cannot figure out what to do about living costs. Despite reaching out to the universities and faculty, I have not been able to secure a research assistantship or TA position. I'm looking at paying for the living cost from my savings but for the remaining, I am concerned about financing my living cost for the remaining. I am leaning toward either UChicago's MPP or Georgetown's MIDP but cannot decide which program to go with. As an international candidate, STEM certification is necessary to get an extended OTP work visa in the U.S. The UK has a much smaller job market and its economy doesn't give me hope of landing a job there at all. Which program do you suggest will provide the most ROI? Especially for an International Candidate. What program is the most analytically rigorous and where getting good grades is tougher? How much support does the Alumni network of UChicago or Georgetown provide in getting good placements?