Actually it does matter, regardless of chapter size. It may not affect bump groups but see others' responses about recruitment being a mandatory event. It all depends on the chapter bylaws, as well.

For some chapters (probably most, actually) recruitment dates are set by the college/university as much as a year in advance. No excuse for not knowing when you have to be back on campus for "work week" or "polish week" as well as the week of recruitment.

NYCMS, please don't get huffy - I'm just curious if you have been an advisor or involved since your college days? I don't recall seeing you post your affiliation or your involvement. Things have really changed over the years! And sometimes your posts suggest that you're operating on "old information." Again, not picking on you - just seeking clarification. I got an email a while back that you'd tried to PM me here on GC, and I am sorry that my message box is still full. I let my "membership" lapse and I let messages build up over the past five years. Gah! I still have to dump a mess of messages. Sigh.

AZTheta, yep it's been several decades since I was an active and since I advised a colony as a traveling consultant. I'll exit this conversation and leave the advice up to you ladies who are in the know. :)

Thank you all so much! You were all very helpful. I was only a week into the job already, but it actually didn't work out, so I am actually completely available for rush! I'm a PNM btw. I agree, it's an important commitment!

I'm sorry your job didn't work out, but glad that you can see the silver lining, in that you now should be able to attend all rush events. Good luck!