Is it difficult to get a bid if you’re from far out of state (Dallas) and don’t know anyone there in the houses you’re trying to get? At some southern schools like Bama or Ole Miss it’s almost impossible to get a bid without a connection.
Most houses are happy to have members from any geographic location, as long as the rushee doesn’t irritate too many people before the bid. The best way to avoid irritating too many people is to make sure you don’t have too much to drink.
There may be a few houses that are more hereditary in nature, but most are not. Once you narrow it down to about 3 or 4 houses where you are interested, make sure they know you are interested in them, and try to avoid missing any of their events. Don’t narrow down your choice to a single house too early, just in case you don’t get a bid. In life, always have a backup plan.
if you hate the first two houses that you visit, don’t give up on all fraternities. Keep walking and you will find some houses that are the complete opposite of what you just experienced.
Also, don’t be too impressed (or turned off) by the physical condition of the fraternity (or sorority) building. You are picking a house based upon personalities.