In fact, I have no memory of interaction with locals. It is as bland as bland can be.

Lots of college towns are bland. BYU doesn't even have really cool restaurants, and due to alcoholic prohibtions, no cool hangouts.

Provo doesn't pretend to be the center of the universe, as many of our students have visited the world and know it's a big world out there. Apparently, Ute students are so provincial they are unaware.