I'm from a fraternity, but I'll give my perspective.

1. I'd say yes. I would look worse if you pledged and dropped. Then rerushed.. We've turned people down that have dropped other fraternities and rushed again, expectially after we gave them a bid the first time and they chose another. Maybe explain that you didn't pledge anyone.

2. Not a big deal at my campus. Freshman can be kind of risky. Young & dumb. Never pay dues, lower GPAs... so on.

3. I would see that being a problem. You'll do a lot after pledging and if you're not there for new member ed., you're not going to be initiated. Is there a smaller Spring rush? so that maybe you can do it in the Spring when you're back, rather than Fall and miss everything.