How Do People Afford Master's Programs? Considering NEU for CS/DS – Advice needed!

I am thinking about doing my masters in either computer science or data science at Northeastern next year. I am aware that these programs are mostly just meant to make money for the university and a lot of people claim there is no benefit to doing them, but I am considering it because I haven't been able to get a job since graduating in May, 2024 and I am desperate for anything that could help me. For context, I have a BS in CS and have solid internship and research experience. My reasoning for pursuing an MS is that an it could help me transition into the DS field, gain a competitive edge against those with only a BS, get a co-op/internship that could potentially lead to a full-time offer or at least give me more experience, and get more research experience.

My problem is finding a way to afford the crazy expenses. So, can anyone share whether it would be possible to get any TA or RA position, or grant/scholarship, or fellowship that could cover my tuition? The NEU website says "students are eligible for part-time student employment positions after their first semester in roles such as teaching assistants, ambassadors, instructional assistants, or research assistants." But even if I get a part-time position, $20/hr for 20 hrs/week is not nearly enough to cover ~$29,000 yearly tuition AND Boston's crazy living expenses.

I've seen all of NEU's financing your education pages, but they mostly say that scholarships are granted by the department in your admission letter, and to apply for third-party scholarships/fellowships. However, these are crazy competitive and I probably have no chance of getting them if I'm being realistic.

Any advice or information would be appreciated! I just don't understand how so many people afford doing their masters. I know other schools fully cover tuition with TA/RA positions, but I didn't get into any of them, unfortunately.

For context: 3.96 GPA, major in CS, minor in stats, US citizen.