Emporia is a friendly college town with a compact, walkable downtown, riverfront parks and bike trails, regular community events, and a low cost of living—comfortable and interesting for multi‑week assignments without feeling isolated.
For bigger-city options, Topeka (state‑capital museums and dining) and Wichita (larger cultural venues, nightlife and an international airport) are both an easy weekend drive away, so you get a quiet base with quick access to more to do.