Money-wise:

Berkeley only gave me first year $, is it worth the reputation?

Tulane, SCI-Arc, and RISD made it affordable for me. 

Ethos-wise:

I want to study sustainable design and participate in community activism, looking for a school that provides a harmonious blend of theoretical studies, activism, creativity, and practicality.

Tulane seems very sincere and practical. Their city is literally in trouble and no-one is joking around. Is Tulane a good program despite its lower ranking (comparing to the other three)?

Is SCI-Arc too speculative, dreamy, and impractical? I went to their Open House and it seems like despite the online reputation their students' work can be quite down to earth unlike what people say.

I want to end up working on the West Coast, but also really interested in RISD, is there still a chance to work in the West after as a RISD alum? 

Berkeley, I know, might be the best of all but it is not affordable for me. Does anyone know if an international student can negotiate Berkeley money?