Students Bring Downtown North Adams to Life, One Reel at a Time

Downtown North Adams is getting a new spotlight through creative partnerships that connect students, local businesses, and the broader community.

Both MCLA and the Williams College Center for Learning in Action are working with downtown businesses to create collaborative Instagram content that showcases the unique places, people, and experiences available just steps from campus and public transportation. Through Instagram Collab posts and engaging short-form Reels, students are helping tell the stories of local businesses while encouraging more people to explore downtown.

The student-created videos feature POV-style walkthroughs that invite viewers to experience businesses firsthand—from entering a storefront to discovering what makes each destination special. The content highlights businesses that are accessible by foot, with a particular focus on locations within walking distance of MCLA’s campus or BRTA bus stops, helping students and visitors see downtown as an easy and welcoming place to spend time.

For local businesses, these collaborations provide an opportunity to reach new audiences through authentic, student-driven storytelling. For students, the project creates a meaningful connection to the community while building skills in digital media, marketing, and creative communication.

The effort supports a larger goal of strengthening the relationship between North Adams’ colleges and downtown businesses, making it easier for students to discover local restaurants, shops, services, and gathering spaces while bringing greater visibility to the entrepreneurs who make downtown vibrant.

Whether it’s finding a new favorite coffee spot, discovering a local shop, or exploring a neighborhood destination, these Instagram collaborations are helping showcase all that downtown North Adams has to offer.

Dont miss out! Follow @mcla_edu and @williamscollegeclia on Instagram.