Tulane Sophomore Balances Academics and Acting in 'Sinners'

Shelby Olivia Bradley landed a role in the Academy Award-winning film while pursuing her degree.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 12:50am

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An abstract close-up image featuring shimmering sequins, plush velvet, and dramatic lighting, capturing the high-fashion aesthetic of the entertainment industry.The glitz and glamour of the film industry come alive in the textures and lighting of this conceptual illustration.New Orleans Today

Tulane University sophomore Shelby Olivia Bradley has been balancing her studies with a burgeoning acting and modeling career. Just months before starting her degree, Bradley landed a role in the Academy Award-winning film 'Sinners,' where she danced in the juke joint scenes alongside the lead actor. Despite the demanding shooting schedule, Bradley has been able to maintain her full-time student status at Tulane.

Why it matters

Bradley's experience highlights the challenges and opportunities that can arise for young aspiring actors and models who are also pursuing higher education. Her ability to juggle academics and a professional entertainment career at such a young age is an inspiring story for other students with creative ambitions.

The details

Bradley, a Louisiana native, started dancing at age two and has been working in film since she was 15. When the producers of 'Sinners' reached out to her, she initially turned down the project due to scheduling conflicts, but they kept calling until she agreed. Bradley ended up working 12-hour days for five months, often shooting at night. Despite the demanding schedule, she has been able to maintain her status as a full-time student at Tulane, majoring in digital media design and marketing communications.

  • Bradley started dancing at two years old.
  • She began working in film at age 15.
  • Bradley landed the role in 'Sinners' just months before starting her degree at Tulane.
  • The film 'Sinners' was shot over a five-month period.

The players

Shelby Olivia Bradley

A Tulane University sophomore majoring in digital media design and marketing communications, with a minor in general legal studies. Bradley is also an actress, dancer, and model who recently appeared in the Academy Award-winning film 'Sinners'.

Ryan Coogler

The director of the film 'Sinners', which Bradley had a role in.

Michael B. Jordan

The lead actor in the film 'Sinners', which Bradley appeared in.

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What they’re saying

“I come to campus whenever I please, or whenever someone wants to meet.”

— Shelby Olivia Bradley, Tulane University Sophomore

“They reached out to me. I initially turned down the project because of scheduling conflicts, but when they kept calling, I eventually said yes.”

— Shelby Olivia Bradley, Tulane University Sophomore

“Shooting a film requires long hours. I worked 12-hour days for months, often working from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. 'Sinners' filmed for five months total.”

— Shelby Olivia Bradley, Tulane University Sophomore

What’s next

Bradley plans to continue balancing her studies at Tulane with her acting, dancing, and modeling work. She hopes to take on more roles in the future that allow her to showcase her versatility and diverse talents.

The takeaway

Bradley's experience demonstrates that it is possible for young, ambitious students to pursue their creative passions while also maintaining a rigorous academic schedule. Her ability to juggle the demands of both her studies and her burgeoning entertainment career is an inspiration to other students with similar aspirations.