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I actually appreciate the paragraph style. Easier to read and follow!
GPA requirements vary depending on school and chapter, but you seem to be in good shape on that. Generally, if you are going into recruitment with a college GPA above a 3.0, you can relax. Being an Asian and a non-legacy should not be an issue either. Many people going through recruitment are the first in their families to do so. I also know quite a few Asians who are involved in IFC Greek life. I think you can just put those worries aside and concentrate on finding the house that is the best fit for you.
Majors/course of study is one of those topics that usually comes up naturally during recruitment conversation, so you should have an opportunity to let groups know your situation and that you'll be around for awhile. However, your class status is sophomore, and plenty of guys pledge fraternities as non-freshmen. This, too, does depend on the school, but I know nonfreshmen guys who have received bids even at the competitive SEC schools.
Other topics that come up in recruitment relate to scholarship/study hours/incentives, time commitments, cost, intramural sports, housing opportunities, community involvement, brotherhood activities. What are the issues that are key to you? You mentioned a house -- ask about the requirements for living in the house. It's also fine to ask a brother what made him want to pledge and how he knew his fraternity was right for him. Also, if you fall into a good conversation about a common interest, go with it. Recruitment is about learning about different fraternities as well as discovering where you're most comfortable and feel connected.
Rushing solo is fine. Someone on Greek Chat pointed out the other day that it can actually be a positive. Sometimes if a duo or group sticks together, a fraternity might assume they're a package deal. If they don't like your friend,they may not invite you back either because they think you won't pledge unless your buddy does, too.
Overall, I think you sound like you're going into this in good shape and with the right attitude of being open to learning about all groups. Since you already seem to know that there are fraternity-specific events and house tours, it sounds like recruitment has been publicized around your campus. Did you have to register? If you aren't sure, contact the Greek Life office or website and make sure you have that covered.
As for contacting fraternities ahead of time...that I'm not sure of and hopefully some fraternity men will add to these comments and give their thoughts on that. If there is registration involved, that is usually all the pre-recruitment action you need to take. It's hard to say how making direct contact with individual fraternities might be perceived -- as someone who is sincerely interested or as a try-hard hoping to get an edge. If you've registered, my initial thought is to leave it alone and just head into recruitment with your best foot forward.
All the best to you!
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