This timeline outlines Mariska Hargitay's education and her initial steps into the acting world.
Sherman Oaks High School
Early Years
Mariska attended Sherman Oaks High School in California, where she participated in drama and cheerleading.
Beauty Pageants
1982
Before her acting career took off, Mariska participated in beauty pageants, winning the Miss Beverly Hills USA title.
UCLA Studies
1983-1984
Mariska enrolled at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she studied theatre. She left before graduating to pursue acting opportunities.
Early Television Roles
Mid-1980s
Mariska began her acting career with guest appearances on various television shows, including 'Star 80,' 'Falcon Crest,' and 'Downtown.'
Ghoulies
1986
Mariska had a role in the horror comedy 'Ghoulies,' one of her earlier film roles.
