 At the age of six, she was already impersonating family and friends at gatherings.After enrolling in Boston University, Salem began exploring her interest in acting by performing in several college productions including Othello and Biloxi Blues, and earned a nomination for The Irene Ryan Award for her portrayal of Helena in R.U.R.After earning her bachelor's degree, Salem was accepted to the Circle in the Square Theater Conservatory program in New York City, where she studied for two years.