<p>Zimfan, that is silly. U of Chicago is on track to get 30,000 applications this year. The OP’s SAT is not above average. For 2011 admitted students, the 50% ranges were:</p>
<p>M - 700-780
CR - 700-790</p>
<p>So the OP is in the bottom 50% for CR, and bottom 20% for Math.</p>
<p>That said, I think the OP should definitely apply if it a school you really want to attend. The essays are said to be very important in setting yourself apart from the crowd, so start thinking about those right away if you haven’t yet. Also, absolutely include the volunteer hours, 170 is quite a few hours.</p>