<p>This is an interesting situation and therefore I’m not sure if anyone on CC can address your chances well. </p>
<p>Still, assuming that Chicago is your first choice (judging from your relationships with their professors), apply EA, make it absolutely clear you’d go if accepted and your passion and initiative in pursuing outside studies. That GPA may very well be the kiss of death though, no matter what you do…</p>
<p>Congrats on the high SAT, but don’t let it go to your head. Many applicants to Chicago have 2200+ and were rejected EA this year.</p>