Advise on recent admission

Hello everyone!

I recently got into Northwestern University for a masters degree in Mechanical Engineering (thesis option). As I finish up requirements to officially be admitted, I notice many current NU students stressing about the recent federal funding cuts (most colleges are cutting on employees, meaning less researchers with lower pay). By no means can I afford $8k/credit hour. Even if it’s just two credit hours a semester, I’d definitely have to take loans.

To top that off, not sure if the thesis option is on the menu anymore since professors are now extremely strict with funding cuts.

Just wondering if anyone is in the same boat? Wondering what I should do. I did my undergrad at University of Illinois at Chicago, and being admitted to NU meant the world to me. Not sure if I should settle for UIC, or just take loans out to afford NU?