Mara attended Fox Lane High School, where she developed an early interest in acting through school plays and local theater productions. However, her initial career aspirations were not focused on acting. After high school, she enrolled at George Washington University, intending to study international social policy. After a year, she transferred to New York University (NYU), where she graduated from the Gallatin School of Individualized Study with a degree that combined psychology, international social policy, and nonprofits.
Rooney Mara’s foray into acting was significantly influenced by her older sister, Kate Mara, who had already established herself in the industry. Watching her sister navigate the acting world ignited Rooney's own aspirations. In 2005, she made her screen debut in the direct-to-video horror film "Urban Legends: Bloody Mary," where she was credited under her birth name, Patricia Mara.
Following her debut, Mara worked tirelessly, taking on small roles in television series such as "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" and "The Cleaner." She also appeared in minor film roles, building her experience and honing her craft. Despite the struggles and the competitive nature of Hollywood, Mara's dedication and talent began to shine through.
Mara's first major breakthrough came in 2010 with her role as Erica Albright in David Fincher's critically acclaimed film "The Social Network." Although her screen time was limited, her performance as the girlfriend of Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg left a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike. This role marked the beginning of her collaboration with Fincher, a director who would play a pivotal role in her career.
Rooney Mara's career skyrocketed when she was cast as Lisbeth Salander in the 2011 adaptation of Stieg Larsson's novel "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo," directed by David Fincher. Mara underwent a dramatic transformation for the role, including multiple piercings, a distinctive haircut, and intense physical training. Her portrayal of the complex and enigmatic hacker garnered widespread acclaim, earning her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.
The success of "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" established Mara as a formidable talent in Hollywood. Her fearless performance demonstrated her versatility and commitment to her craft, opening doors to more challenging and diverse roles.
Following her success with "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo," Mara continued to select diverse and challenging roles. She starred in "Side Effects" (2013), a psychological thriller directed by Steven Soderbergh, and "Her" (2013), a sci-fi romance by Spike Jonze. Her ability to navigate different genres showcased her range and solidified her reputation as a versatile actress.
In 2015, Mara delivered another critically acclaimed performance in Todd Haynes' romantic drama "Carol," opposite Cate Blanchett. Her role as Therese Belivet, a young photographer entangled in a forbidden love affair, earned her the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival and a second Academy Award nomination. This period marked Mara’s consolidation as a leading actress capable of delivering powerful performances across a wide spectrum of roles.
Outside of her acting career, Rooney Mara is deeply involved in philanthropy. She founded the charity Faces of Kibera, which aims to provide housing, food, and medical care for orphans in Kibera, a slum in Nairobi, Kenya. Her commitment to humanitarian causes reflects her dedication to making a positive impact beyond the screen.
