Articles by Rachel Alger
"Drop-Out Rates among First-Generation Undergraduate Students in the Un" by Rachel Alger
Publication Date 1-1-2024 Keywords first-generation college students, higher education, academic preparation, achievement gap Abstract For first-generation college students, receiving an acceptance letter to an institution of higher education is a milestone: a means to secure economic and social opportunities not afforded to their family members.
First Time at Disneyland? Tips You Need to Know
Heading to Disneyland might feel like you’re gearing up for an adventure—and you are. But, to navigate the parks like a pro, you’ll need more than just an app and a dream—you’ll need a plan. Don’t worry though, from snack hacks to shortcuts, we’ve compiled a guide packed with tips we’ve learned (some the hard way) to make your Disneyland trip as magical as possible. Let’s dive in! Snacks at Disneyland aren’t just food; they’re part of the experience.
Maximizing Your Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party – in 2023 - Perfecting the Magic
Congratulations! You’ve scored tickets to the exclusive Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party at Disney California Adventure Park on select nights in September and October 2023. It’s time to turn this enchanted evening into an unforgettable adventure. Welcome to the insider’s guide on how to make the absolute most out of your spooky soirée.
Celebrate May the 4th with These Epic Star Wars Merchandise Deals
Are you ready to celebrate May the 4th and show your love for Star Wars? Look no further! We’ve compiled a super quick list of merchandise deals available to add to your Star Wars collection this year. From apparel to home decor, toys, and collectibles, these deals are sure to satisfy every Star Wars fan out there! Star Wars Merch Deals You Need to See No Codes Required Score up to 30% off on all Star Wars clothing items at Hot Topic.
Annual Passes are Back at Walt Disney World in 2023— But, Are They Worth It?! - Perfecting the Magic
Walt Disney World Resort will be offering new Annual Passes April 20th 2023! While it’s a reason to celebrate for some, many are left wondering if an Annual Pass is still worth it; and which Annual Pass they should buy.
What’s Coming to Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando in 2023-2025
Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal Orlando offer immersive, thrilling experiences, from rides to attractions to hotels, and are ever-expanding. From Marvel, Harry Potter, the Simpsons, Minions, and Jurassic Park, you can find some of the coolest entertainment on both coasts in their parks.
The Best Disney Gifts for Adults
The holiday season is upon us, and finding the perfect gift for the Disney adult in your life can be a little overwhelming, especially if you want to give them something that feels personal, while at the same time sticking to your budget. We’ve created this Disney gift guide with this in mind. We included a range of small shop Etsy choices, from stocking stuffers to splurges, to help you take care of your Christmas list in no time! Disney Gifts Under $20 Disney gifts don’t have to break the bank.
The Best Times to Visit Walt Disney World in 2023
Walt Disney World is busier than ever, and knowing the best times to visit can be challenging. There’s a lot to consider—do you aim for the lowest crowds, the newest Walt Disney World rides, and attractions, or visit during the most temperate weather of the year? It’s hard to choose, and it’s rare for all of those things to align. That’s why Perfecting the Magic creates guides (like this one!) to help you plan your trip.
5 Things Worth Splurging on in Walt Disney World - Perfecting the Magic
Walt Disney World is an experience, and it can be quite an expensive one. Even a short trip with a budget in mind can add up quickly, which is why we advocate doing Disney your way, every time. Tailoring your trip to your interests is the best way to ensure your money is well spent. Sometimes that will mean a quick trip on a budget, and sometimes that will mean a longer, more spendy vacation. But what about the in-between?
Your 2022 Guide to Halloween Treats at Magic Kingdom - Perfecting the Magic
At Walt Disney World, the spooky season begins conjuring up its ghoulish delights in August. However, for most of us mere mortals the Halloween bug doesn’t really bite until after Labor Day. But, when it hits us, it hits hard, and we shift from pixie dust to pumpkin spice in the blink of an eye. This is why we’re launching our Halloween treat guide to Magic Kingdom this week.
PTM’s Exclusive Interview with Rozy’s Magical World - Perfecting the Magic
Perfecting the Magic had the pleasure of sitting down with Rozy of Rozy’s Magical World to talk about everything from Disneybounds to mental health and the healing power of revisiting childhood dreams. Join PTM as we feature this talented creator who is dedicated to revealing the realities of life both inside and outside of the Disney influencer bubble. Can you describe your perfect Disney day?
Is D3 Membership Worth It? - Perfecting the Magic
Are you the ultimate Disney fan? If so, you may be wondering if you should join D23, the official Disney fan club. While the Gold levels of the club offer many perks, including exclusive events, discounts, collectible gifts, and more, you may be asking yourself if a D23 Membership is worth it. Today we’re unpacking the details to help you decide. What’s Included with D23 Membership General Membership (free) includes the weekly FanFare digital newsletter and “access to D23 exclusives”.
Is D23 Membership Worth It? - Perfecting the Magic
Are you the ultimate Disney fan? If so, you may be wondering if you should join D23, the official Disney fan club. While the Gold levels of the club offer many perks, including exclusive events, discounts, collectible gifts, and more, you may be asking yourself if a D23 Membership is worth it. Today we’re unpacking the details to help you decide. What’s Included with D23 Membership General Membership (free) includes the weekly FanFare digital newsletter and “access to D23 exclusives”.
The Best Walt Disney World Breakfasts for $20 or Less - Perfecting the Magic
One of the best ways to relax, indulge, and feel like you’re actually on vacation while at Walt Disney World is to slow down and grab a great breakfast. The meal can often be overlooked, but since it can set the tone for your day, it shouldn’t be. While buffets dominate the breakfast scene, Walt Disney World offers excellent table service and elevated quick service breakfast options for $20 or less that we think are worthy of attention.
The Cutest Disney Finds on Amazon - Perfecting the Magic
We’ve never had more options when shopping for Disney merchandise. From Shop Disney to indie sellers and Etsy creators, we can find a bit of Disney nearly everywhere these days. While there are few places as convenient and quick as Amazon (hello, Prime!), the site is ostensibly a marketplace, and it can be challenging to wade through its waters to find the best they have to offer. To help guide you, we’re back with a roundup of 23 of the cutest Disney finds available on Amazon.
Disneyland’s Best Food on a Budget - Perfecting the Magic
One of the most enjoyable things about a day at Disneyland is all of the treats there are to try. There are many options, from tiny snacks to full-on meals, and if you’re on a budget and looking to eat a few things, it can get pricey. Enter Perfecting the Magic with our guide to Disneyland’s best food on a budget! We’re not talking turkey legs, pineapple Dole Whip, Mickey pretzels, and churro carts, friends; we’re talking about less obvious eats that might just become your future faves.
A WDW Inspired Shoppable Guide to the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale - Perfecting the Magic
Okay, hear us out, it’s Nordstrom Anniversary Sale time, and the selection can be overwhelming. With the sale open to the public and going on through July 31st, time is of the essence. But, what should you pick up? As always, PTM has your back. We’ve hand-selected pieces for the Disney fan, tailoring picks to each Walt Disney World park so you can feel inspired to fill up your closet with new staples.
The Walt Disney World Monorail Resort Crawl Recommendations You Need - Perfecting the Magic
A monorail resort crawl is a fantastic way to spend a day at Walt Disney World. Since you don’t need a park ticket, it can be one of the best ways to soak in the WDW vibes and appreciate the resorts without feeling as though you’re missing out by hanging out and lounging all day.
A Shoppable Guide to Disney Home Finds on Etsy - Perfecting the Magic
At PTM, we love a shoppable guide. We’re Disney fans first, and are always looking for new ways to infuse a touch of Disney magic into our homes. But, that doesn’t mean finding the right pieces is easy. There’s a lot to choose from and it can be difficult to find cute Disney merch if you don’t know where to look. Enter Etsy. While we have lots of indie shopping options these days, Etsy offers a consistent source of cute Disney merch, and it’s an excellent resource for home finds.
Why Taking a Break at Walt Disney World is a Flex - Perfecting the Magic
Hot take or not, at PTM, we think breaks at Walt Disney World are useful and can drastically improve your trip. This article is a bit of an open letter from one of the most passionate proponents of afternoon breaks at WDW. So, prepare yourself if you’re a rope drop-to-close fan because this opinion piece isn’t holding back. Let’s get into it! Flex One: Better Disney Dining Who doesn’t love a Mickey pretzel, Ronto Wrap, or Dole Whip in the parks?
Disneyland’s Oogie Boogie Bash Tickets: The 2022 Details You Need - Perfecting the Magic
Summer might just be heating up, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t start thinking about Halloween! That’s right, friends; it’s time to mark your calendars because the spooky season is right around the corner, and it’s almost time to buy your Oogie Boogie Bash tickets! Join Perfecting the Magic as we dig into all the Oogie Boogie Bash details happening at Disneyland this year, including when you can purchase tickets and what you can expect from the frightfully fun event! How to Buy Oogie...
The Best Hotels Near Walt Disney World for Families on a Budget - Perfecting the Magic
Choosing a hotel at Walt Disney World can be frustrating. Especially for families. There’s a lot to consider, and while WDW offers some of the most immersive hotel experiences around, staying on property doesn’t make sense for everyone. Many feel their time is better spent in the parks and prefer to book a hotel adjacent to Walt Disney World instead. If this sounds like you, we’ve created a list of five of the best hotels near Walt Disney World for families on a budget.
Is Disney Vacation Club Worth it? - Perfecting the Magic
If you’re considering becoming a Disney Vacation Club member, you’re likely wondering if DVC membership is worth it. It’s a decision that shouldn’t be made lightly, as it requires a significant initial investment, and it can be difficult to predict all future costs associated with ownership. At Perfecting the Magic, we want to help you make the most of your Disney vacations, and for those contemplating DVC, it’s essential to understand the advantages (and disadvantages) of becoming a member.
Disney's Topolino's Terrace: Character Breakfast and Dinner, Reviewed - Perfecting the Magic
Disney’s Topolino’s Terrace is one of the hottest dining reservations in Walt Disney World. Featuring what is (arguably) the most in-demand character breakfast on WDW property and one of the finest fine dining experiences in Florida, Topolino’s Terrace is a dream dining destination for many Disney fans. But, which reservation should you choose?
The Best Disney Merch You Can Buy on Amazon - Perfecting the Magic
Sometimes you need a Disney merchandise fix, and your next trip to Disney is months away. Sure, you have access to Shop Disney, but who wants to pay for shipping every time? Not us! Not You! Even if you have the best of Disney shopping right in your backyard, sometimes buying from Amazon at 2 am just feels right! Did you know there are a ton of amazing sleeper Disney picks on Amazon just waiting for you to discover them?
How to Enjoy Walt Disney World if Your Partner Hates It - Perfecting the Magic
Good news, bad news. The good news is you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World! The bad news? Your partner hates Disney. While they have (begrudgingly) agreed to go, you’re worried that you’ll need more than pixie dust to get them to have a good time. Don’t sweat it. Perfecting the Magic has you covered with the tips you’ll need to enjoy Walt Disney World, even if your partner hates it.
Our Exclusive Interview with Gideon’s Bakehouse Owner and Creator, Steve Lewis - Perfecting the Magic
The reputation of Gideon’s Bakehouse proceeds it. Whether it’s the accolades they’ve so deservingly received, their heady romantic aesthetic, or the half-pound chocolate chip cookies that made them famous, Gideon’s Bakehouse is known for doing things differently. Their newest shop, located at Disney Springs, offers a multi-sensory experience that transports you from sun-soaked Orlando to another realm entirely, leaving us wondering what inspired their work. We needed to learn more.
Our Easy Walt Disney World Wookiee Cookie Copycat Recipe - Perfecting the Magic
May the 4th Be With You every day when you make this Walt Disney World Inspired Wookiee Cookie recipe! Our Wookiee Cookie copycat recipe tastes just like the delectable treat found at Backlot Express in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and it’s easy to recreate at home, too! Celebrate your love for Chewie with chewy oatmeal cookies sandwiching rich vanilla marshmallow cream while you bite into a chocolate bandolier so rich you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a galaxy far, far away.
Don't Make These First-Timer Mistakes at Walt Disney World - Perfecting the Magic
Hear us out, besties; Walt Disney World is ever-changing. Even Disney pros like the Perfecting the Magic crew run into snags. Without the proper intel, it’s easy to make mistakes at WDW, especially for first-timers.
Falling in Love at Disneyland - Perfecting the Magic
Do you know how they say that once you notice something, you’ll find examples of it everywhere? That’s how we feel about Disneyland love stories. Once you start paying attention, love blooms everywhere you look in Disney parks. From engagements, to weddings, magical moments are happening all the time. But, there’s one sort of unexpected magic that we can’t get enough of: couples who fall in love at Disneyland.
What to do When Walt Disney World is Packed - Perfecting the Magic
Are you headed to Walt Disney World in 2022? Chances are, it’s going to be a bit more crowded than you’re used to. With the 50th Anniversary Celebration in full swing and Disney fans filling the parks, Walt Disney World is packed more often than not. The good news is that some planning (and willingness to shift your schedule) can go a long way. At Perfecting the Magic, we’re all about making your days at Disney the best they can be.
A Shoppable Guide to Adding a Touch of Disney to Your Style - Perfecting the Magic
We love Disney and infusing Disney looks into our style is an integral part of that. But, sometimes merch offerings can feel a little overt and a bit too in-your-face for us. Sure, sharing our love of Disney is great, but sometimes, we prefer to do it in a whisper, not a scream. That’s why Perfecting the Magic has created a shoppable guide to infusing a touch of Disney into your style.
Why You're Important to the Disney Community - Perfecting the Magic
Sometimes finding yourself means seeing yourself in others. Other times, it means forging your own path. Representation matters, and when we find our community, we help create something bigger than ourselves. When we find our kindred spirits, we find a sense of belonging that feels like home. That’s why Disney is so valuable to us all.
The Hottest Walt Disney World Dining Reservations and How to Book Them - Perfecting the Magic
Booking the most popular Walt Disney World dining reservations has always taken a fair bit of planning. Add in the 50th Anniversary Celebration, capacity limits, increased demand, and finding hard-to-get dining reservations at Walt Disney World can feel impossible.
We Made a Copycat Recipe for Disney's Animal Kingdom’s 50th Celebration Ice Cream Sandwich - Perfecting the Magic
During Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary Celebration, one of our favorite treats can be found at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! We can’t get enough of the 50th Celebration Ice Cream Sandwich sold at Dino-Bite Snacks.
The Best Food at the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival
It’s that time again. The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival has begun! The fest runs from March 2nd 2022 through July 4th 2022, and it’s one of our faves! With lush landscaping, topiaries of Disney characters, and can’t miss treats, it’s easy to see why this festival is so popular.
We Gave Disney Princesses Modern Makeovers - Perfecting the Magic
We love Disney Princesses. Their stories are timeless, but their style can feel a bit stuffy by today’s standards. While it’s true that there’s a thin line between classic and dated, we think there’s something to paying homage to beloved characters through reimagining them. So, we gave Disney Princesses modern makeovers! Their looks are shoppable, aspirational, luxurious, and (most importantly) on-trend.
The Best Disney World Snacks (No Park Ticket Required) - Perfecting the Magic
Walt Disney World is having a major moment! With the 50th Anniversary Celebration firmly underway and a significant push in advertising, Walt Disney World is packed—even during the so-called ‘slow season.’ If you’re headed to Walt Disney World and are looking for a chill day away from the parks, Perfecting the Magic has you covered! We scoped out the best Disney snacks at Walt Disney World, and you won’t even need a park ticket to experience them! The Best Dole Whip at Walt Disney World Love...
How to Plan a Luxury Walt Disney World Honeymoon - Perfecting the Magic
POV: You’re engaged, and you’re planning a honeymoon at Walt Disney World! You and your fiancé love to have fun, and it’s the perfect choice for you. But, are you looking to indulge and relax on your Disney honeymoon, but you’re not quite sure what to book to ensure that it’s as luxurious as you’d like it to be? Say no more! Perfecting the Magic has your back. We live for elevated Disney experiences, and helping you plan the Walt Disney World honeymoon of your dreams is a top priority.
22 Disney Creators to Follow in 2022
At Perfecting the Magic, we live and breathe Disneyland and Walt Disney World, which means we can’t get enough of the outstanding content that Disney creators make every day! To celebrate them, we’ve created a list of 22 Disney creators to follow in 2022. Join PTM as we award this year’s exceptional ‘class’ of Disney influencers who are out here killing it! Perfecting the Magic’s 2022 Picks Geoffrey at The Theme Park Millennial is everything you want in a Disney creator.
The Princess Program Foundation: Bringing Magic to Children Battling Cancer
At Perfecting the Magic, we’re inspired by the dedication of Disney creators every day. When we stumbled upon The Princess Program on TikTok, we were moved beyond words. The organization, committed to entertaining children facing childhood cancer, brings magic to families enduring the unimaginable. Join PTM in learning more about their exceptional work through our exclusive interview. Hi Alyssa! Thank you for taking the time to connect with Perfecting the Magic.
This Dark Chocolate Habanero Brownie Recipe Brings the Heat
Looking to spice up your life? These dark chocolate habanero brownies could be the answer. Until recently, I hadn't considered adding habanero peppers to desserts. That changed during a trip to Trader Joe's, when an employee noticed I was purchasing a jar of crispy habaneros and suggested I throw them into brownies.
Perfecting the Magic Interviews: Magically Meg McGuire
At Perfecting the Magic, we’re inspired by Disney creators that share their unique and authentic voices with their audience. Meg McGuire, of Magically Meg McGuire, is one of such creators. We recently connected with Meg to discuss everything from fashion, mental health, recovery, and the dark side of Disney Influencer culture. Meg’s honesty, warmth, wit, and depth of compassion can be felt through her words. Join us in learning more about her story.
How Genie+ and Lightning Lanes Work at Disneyland
Genie+ and Lightning Lanes are headed to Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventure (DCA) very soon. Perfecting the Magic is here to help you understand how Genie+ and Lightning Lanes work so that you can budget accordingly and make the most out of your Disney park days! How to Use the Free Disney Genie App in Disneyland Disneyland and DCA are bringing Disney Genie to their parks very soon.
Our Copycat Disney Caramel Apple Recipe is Perfect for the Holidays
Winter is approaching, and the festive season is in full swing. We can’t wait to celebrate and indulge in the amazing treats that Disney is known for. When Perfecting the Magic recently sat down with Isaac of TikTok’s Positively Awesome Isaac, we asked him which Walt Disney World copycat recipe we should try next. He said the caramel apples were his favorite. So, we got to work and created a recipe that was easy to make and produced completely customizable results.
Perfecting the Magic's Exclusive Interview with TikTok's Positively Awesome Isaac
At Perfecting the Magic, we’re fascinated by other Disney content creators. We recently had the pleasure of sitting down for an exclusive interview with the duo behind PositivelyAwesomeIsaac, a TikTok phenomenon with over 77+ million views. The account, run by Telissa Carpenter and her 29-year-old son Isaac, has rapidly grown to over 640,000 subscribers and promotes autism awareness and the happiness Disney can bring.
You Have to Try Our Copycat Red Velvet Whoopie Pie Recipe from Disney’s Hollywood Studios
The holidays are here, and we couldn’t be more excited! The Disney trees are trimmed, the lights are bright, and we’re ready to indulge in festive treats all season long. To kick things off, Perfecting the Magic is celebrating with a classic Walt Disney World snack—and total fan favorite—the Red Velvet Whoopie Pie from Hollywood Studios. This fluffy, burgundy beauty filled with cream cheese frosting is unbelievably simple to make, completely delicious, and aesthetically pleasing, too.
Your Luxury Guide to Walt Disney World: Big and Small
Sometimes you need to indulge in the finer things in life. Whether you’re celebrating something big like a honeymoon or you’re simply in need of major rest and relaxation, Perfecting the Magic hopes to help make your trip to Walt Disney World as unforgettable as it is indulgent. We’re covering everything from life’s little luxuries, such as the unexpected hidden local gems that will surprise you, to the unforgettable luxury hotel experiences that will help you feel utterly pampered.
Get In Foolish Mortal; We're Going Backstage: The Haunted Mansion Secrets You've Never Heard
Halloween is fast approaching, and there’s no better time to go behind the scenes at The Haunted Mansion on both coasts. From Disneyland to Walt Disney World, we’re covering the backstage details only insiders know! We’ve done our research and created a list of six facts you’ve likely never heard.
Disney World's 50th Anniversary: How Loyalty Made Everything Possible
Walt Disney World’s 50th Anniversary Celebration is in full swing, and we’re excited to take part. Perfecting the Magic will be documenting all the new releases and experiences throughout WDW’s milestone golden anniversary, and we can’t wait to share them with you! Today we’re rewinding time and sharing the story of brotherhood central to Disney World history, as it adds richness to the experience of the 50th, and is emblematic of the loyalty that pushed the parks forward.
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