hisushank

Hi friends, I applied for PhD in Structural engineering for the fall 2012 to four universities. Virginia Tech., Suny Buffalo, Rice Univ, Syracuse. I got Reject from Suny Buffalo ( Applied very late, 10days after deadline ).. but admit in Rice and Syracuse. Rice mentioned in their offer letter, " state of national economy has effected the finances of graduate programs at Rice. As a result we are unable to offer you a tuition waiver or stipend support to lessen the financial burden of being a graduate student. If you able to procure a competitive scholarship from a recognized academic, government, or grant agency in the amount of atleast $14,000 per year ( for atleast three years) we can request a tuition waiver from the office of graduate & post graduate studies. otherwise youu will be responsible to the tuition ......................." I tried to contact few professors in rice whether any positions available under them. one told that she dont have any positions now and will keep my resume in mind if she get any future projects and funds. While other replied that he at present not recruiting any more students and if I go there he can meet and discuss.. Chances of Getting funding in Syracuse also appears to be very low. Please suggest what should I do ? ... as Phd Without funding is next to difficult.... should I defer my admission ? and also next time will apply more univs ...