Hey guys, so I'm currently attending college/university in Massachussetts(I live in California) and I'm toying with the idea of getting a garter snake for my dorm(which allows small-non-furry pets that can live in a tank). I have almost everything mapped out in my head. However there's one thing I'm stuck on that I need to get straightened out before I do anything, and that is what to do during breaks...
We have 3 breaks: Winter(2 weeks) Spring(1 week) and Summer(3 months). As far as winter and spring go, how long would you personally feel safe leaving a garter alone? I doubt spring would be a problem, but 2 weeks(for winter) sounds a bit iffy to me.

And in terms of summer. I'm split on what to do here. I don't personally know anyone on the east coast who'd be willing to take care of a snake. Right now I'm thinking perhaps I could overnight ship him home when summer starts, and have him shipped back when fall semester begins. But would that be too much stress on the snake to ship it that often(twice a year?). If so, any ideas for places that might be willing to board snakes for a reasonable price?

(PS if you feel this just wouldn't work out, feel free to let me know that too, haha)

Thanks in advance

Jordan