Because Murray is in the American South, it has the traditions of that area. That is, international students remark on the friendliness and helpfulness of local citizens. There is very little crime in Murray and international students who expect the American violence protrayed in American films will be disappointed. Also, the rural American tradition places strong emphasis on family and religion. International students who share this emphasis on family and religion will find a respect for these traditions here.
Conversation is important.
A promise is considered a convenant here. If you say you will do something, it will be done. Political values are conservative. Individualism is valued highly. Murray has a heritage of interest in the arts.