Lots of great points here. And different recommendations depending on school selectivity targeted, this student’s stats, budget, etc.
I’m happy to share my D21’s experience if helpful. However, we were not targeting schools without merit…i.e. the tippy top (donut hole family). She is premed so we wanted to preserve funds to assist with med school. She is at a T10 LAC (full ride) and was a finalist/semifinalist/alternate for merit awards at multiple other schools (e.g Stamps). We believe her service experience helped her stand out from all the other average excellent GPAs/scores. I have no evidence other than the fact it was pointed out by multiple scholarship/foundation committees.