help incoming rising sophomore

hi! so I want to transfer here either spring or fall and I want a chance to meet girls and make friends before rush.. when is rush? also i’m from a different state so hwo should I go about making friends? coming in as a sophomore i’m worried.. I want to get into a good house I am happy with and not get dropped by all of
them or have one “last resort” any help appreciated... also is rush here easier than rushing in the south? it’s super competitive in the south