note: just this last year, it was very clearly noted in the panhel recruitment rules that you are NOT to EVER ask a PNM what other house(s) she is going to, what she thought of them, etc. A huge no-no and could result in stiff penalties. That was the policy at Minnesota, anyway. I know many larger greek schools do things quite differently sometimes, though.
And in regards to COB, I was pretty sure that I did NOT want to go through formal recruitment, so I joined through COB, and later was COB chair for my chapter.
In my opinion it is not only less-stressful, but you can be more personal with your potential sisters, conversations are less forced, and you can talk about more topics (that were taboo during formal, etc)- in other words, just get a better feel for the sisters and chapters.
CuriousWildcat, I am really impressed with how well you did during formal recruitment and your great attitude!
Enjoy your school year and GOOD LUCK with COB!