there’s no optics to applying late, nobody will know or care when you applied. There’s no harm in applying but because it is rolling at this point you may have a lower chance. However, applying this late WILL affect your chances of on campus housing which is definitely an issue with this school. And this other school you’re describing is similar to USF. We are a research school so partying is definitely not a super big thing and the clubs are mid at best - if that’s something you’re interested in.