While many struggling actors in Hollywood wait tables in anticipation of their "big break," Nicki Micheaux teaches elementary students for the Los Angeles School District. She does it partially because she needs to supplement her income, but mostly because she believes she can make a difference in the lives of young people she encounters. No matter what career someone is pursuing, for Micheaux, education is a key to success in the workforce and in life. "Education needs to be geared towards each person discovering their unique gift and contribution to society and developing that aspect of themselves," Micheaux contends. "Yes, we all need to graduate with the basic skills of reading, writing and math, but something must speak to our soul- discovering that inner-calling." For the fledgling actress that inner-calling to pursue the dramatic arts came several years ago while she was completing her undergraduate degree in Colorado.

While dabbling in acting in college and discussing the prospect of a career in that field with her friends, Micheaux was compelled to relocate post graduation to Los Angeles and make an honest attempt at developing her talents. Soon after, she, her brother and several friends made California their permanent home. Although the competitive world of the film industry in Hollywood has not been all glitz and glamour, Micheaux is not daunted and has benefited greatly from applying the discipline and perseverance she acquired in school. Since landing a recurring role on the popular new TV series "City of Angels" and collaborating on a Showtime short with Oscar winner Hillary Swank, Micheaux's career seems to be on the upswing. Her attitude towards her acting, teaching and life reflect that.

The 29-year-old's positive outlook sums up a first impression on the talent who was raised in St. Louis by hard-working parents, who always encouraged her to respect education and pursue her dreams no matter what. "My parents basically taught me that I could do anything that I put my mind to," reflects Micheaux.  "All that was required was hard work. Because of that I excelled in school and gained a worldly perspective. Education exposed me to many different worlds of culture, and of intellect, and I learned to prosper in a variety of settings." Although the young actress/teacher is experiencing personal and professional success, she is ever aware of the challenges of her film career.

Among the many obstacles, Micheaux observes that big-name film actors are being selected for television projects that would normally go to newer talent. But the competitive aspect of the Hollywood grind is about as far as she goes in voicing complaints. "I believe the possibility is there for you to do and be whatever you want," Micheaux declares. "Because a person like me sees that, it's a good thing because the film industry is a hard business no matter how you cut it.  It's racist, it's sexist, it's age-discriminatory, it's nepotism- but that's just part of the game. You're allowed to play, but how well you play is up to the individual." Micheaux says that while she has hopes of gaining the same accolades and fame that many of her veteran counterparts have, she has other concerns about the greater well-being of the Black community that keep her grounded.  More than Oscar nominations and box office figures, Micheaux says fans and observers should be concerned with the "real" problems of society such as today's youth having access to and taking advantage of educational opportunities. "Succeeding in school can give you confidence.  It can also expose you to worlds, which are outside your comfort zone, if you demand that of yourself. The film industry likes the ease of labeling and thrives on insecurities, fear and greed. Developing a strong sense of self and knowing what it is you want to give to the world through film can be your light in the darkness."

Students pursuing a college degree could learn much from the simple, profound advice Micheaux offers. She encourages all to make the most out of this special time. "Use this time to discover what you have to offer the world. Each of us has a unique gift to give to this society to enhance our experience here on this earth. Embrace a new challenge each year. Let finishing college be your primary goal for now." For those who are considering a career in film and television after college, Micheaux is also supportive. Despite the challenges inherent to the industry, she believes there are plenty of opportunities for people of all races, especially behind the camera. The young actress, who is also setting goals to someday produce, desires to see African Americans attempt to get into "power positions" of producing and distributing films as well as technical and creative jobs such as cinematography and editing. "Whether it is a matter of working in film, theater or any competitive field, you can't be discouraged by the competition or the obstacles to overcome. You have to focus on learning while in school, and even after school, while you're in your career," Micheaux declares. "Finishing college is just one goal accomplished, but the beginning of so many more. The learning process is endless."

For now, acting is Micheaux's main career focus and thus far it has afforded her the opportunity to work with fellow actors such as Blair Underwood and Vivica Fox on City of Angels and the cast of ER during her portrayal of a patient for their highly publicized live segment. While working on "City of Angels," she has been under the direction of renowned director/producer Steven Bochco, and until recently she was set to work with one of her cinematic idols, Steven Spielberg, on his new fall series called Semper Fi. Unfortunately, a schedule conflict precluded her from taking the role, but Spielberg has openly expressed the fact that he is impressed with Micheaux and it probably is just a matter of time before their paths will cross again. "I am fortunate that in such a short time I have met and worked with some of the best in the business. Not just because it's high profile, but because I can learn from them and they actually appreciate my input, and can refer me to other actors, directors and projects."  It is because of those future possibilities that she almost never turns down an opportunity, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant the part. "When you turn down a role, you are, in effect, turning down an opportunity to learn and grow, and you never know what it could lead to," Micheaux concedes.

In the meantime, the determined actress has plenty to keep her busy. Between memorizing lines for roles she has been given and playing the monumentally important role of teacher in one of the toughest districts in the nation, Micheaux persists with the auditions and developing a home life with her new husband. Regardless of challenges that persist in juggling two careers and a marriage, despite all the "isms" that critics say prevail in Hollywood, Micheaux  is determined to succeed in all aspects of her life. She knows it will take a conscious effort to always draw upon the foundation of values her parents laid, and apply the confidence her education instilled, but she believes that is an unbeatable combination.  With that, those following her career expect she will be a formidable challenger to the industry's status quo. Using talent, determination and social consciousness, she is poised to take her place among the next generation of great African-American actors, while reinforcing the importance of diversity on and off the screen.

Paula Farmer is an entertainment specialist and contributing writer.