Dream Program-Unfunded, help

[HockeyNerd]

So I was accepted into Berkeley's MS/PHD program for environmental engineering. The email an unofficial admit from the department, a straight congrats with a note that I will receive official notice in two weeks. I called to inquire about the visitation weekend invitation which was attached. I was promptly informed that Berkeley offers no compensation for the visit, had no recommendations or help with hotel or booking trips and then was told that my letter was an "implied non-funded program." Surprise surprise, probably the reason I was accepted so early. 

Of course I was devastated, I asked if there was any chance I would be considered for TA, RA really anything later on in the process. The woman answered that all decisions were final.....

 

My question is that surely some people offered partial funding or working position do not all accept their offers. What happens to that money. Has anyone heard of students receiving funding information in late March or April. I was even in discussion with a POI who said they were nominating me for funding... Is it acceptable to email this person and politely state that while I was overjoyed to be accepted the financial burden is heavy, and ask if there is any chance they may have funds later?