I think you can go for few Dotnet ( computer language courses ) courses in 2-3 months prepare one live project. reason being even if one doesnt get a scholarship or any aid, Believe me DOTNET is hot in US these days & dotnet individuals can get paid like 15 - 20 $/hour so one can easily fund his studies, this can be a safe option to go for !
it isnt big deal whether department interests matches yours. Show them that it does n you really are very eager to join their RA/TA's ( you've to be little bit fake in tat & I knw indians are smart enough to do tat :P ). one can alaways apply in another departments for TA/RA's. I think its better to fire them a polite emails, that wont harm anybody :-P
