Some sororities (i.e, those that are not at Total), will have informal recruitment in the spring. By no means does this mean that ALL chapters will be able to extend bids in the spring. It's not uncommon at all for Juniors to get bids at App, especially if they keep thier minds and options open (which everyone should do in every circumstance
). The AOPi colony is certainly another option for you to consider as well.
If you are looking for a "small school atmosphere" you may be surprised when you get to App. While it is no NC State, it is certainly getting much larger all the time, and the university has plans to continue growing both in numbers and in structure. It really feels like a whole new school since I first started there, and I only graduated in 2006! Good luck!