Like any student on the pre-med track, I often wonder why I voluntarily choose to agonize over organic chemistry. Luckily, this weekend I had an epiphany. Plan B — become a ski bum!

After the snowfall tease and a faux snow day, I could not contain my excitement for the SnoCats overnight to Okemo in Vermont. This meant a chance finally to venture away from played-out scenes of Downtown Binghamton and my beloved Shitnango. For these three blissful days, I got to embrace my inner steeze and take a dip in gnar heaven. Snow bumming is one way of livin’ the dream, but don’t let this fool you — it’s by no means glamorous.

Some things to keep in mind:

The open road is refreshing, but it means handing over control to the GPS. In my case, there were no cool accents to be heard, just whiny, generic Glinda.

Do not get lost in the DJ booth — pay attention. You’ll end up paying tolls twice if you’re caught up rapping “Juicy” along with Biggie Smalls.

When you get a cheap motel, expect a room that was probably a drug bust stakeout only two nights before. If you land a reeking smoker’s room, know in advance that bags don’t prevent your clothes from smelling like you smoke four packs a day. Try to aim for a cheap motel with an indoor pool and hot tub for sore muscles from yard sales on diamond runs or spills at the park.

Beware of — but entertained by — the locals.

Ski lodge food is going to burn a hole in your wallet and potential night funds. After a draining day on the mountain, the nighttime rebound is essential. So do your research and enjoy apres-ski at local treasures. You might get to try some garlic knot pizza.

These mishaps aside, ski bumming is an adventure.

The simplicity of living out of a suitcase is humbling. Narrowed down to your basics, it’s your crew that makes it. Quite simply, chill people mean a good time.

Location is also key. Vermont offers access to various mountains, all with different terrain to conquer. In this case, Okemo was well equipped.

After a fun and exhausting ski-kend, my findings are obvious. My backup life plan is to become a ski bum with aspirations in ski/board design. Anyone who has tried any form of snow shredding knows that, in the winter, riding is ultimate. It is always an experience beyond words.

Life as a ski bum. What could be sweeter?