I am studying in Rome and have a four day weekend coming up in the beginning of December. I've been dying to get my butt back on the slopes, but have pretty much no idea how to go about doing it. I can do overnight trains from here, whatever. I'm even willing to splurge a little bit (that's splurge in student terms, which is still under 300 euro?)
Possible?

Any help is appreciated,

Alaskan Erin, missing her snow.

As you are headed out early season in the beginning of December, Erin, I'd recommend going to the French Alps. Not only is that probably your closest option, but there are also several resorts there at high elevations and glaciers that will already be open. I'd suggest Val d'Isere or Tignes. They are a couple of my faves. Not sure the best way to get to either of those places from where you are coming from, but I'd bet there are a couple of trains you can hop on.

From one skier to another,

Colorado Julie

Hello Erin,
This is off your subject but I thought I would still ask you. I am also from Juneau, I am the brewer for the Alaskan Brewing Company. Anyway, I am in Belgium for a month exploring all of their great beers and breweries. Have you ever been to Belgium? It is beautiful. How do you like Rome? How long have you been in Rome? I ask because my wife is going to meet me here in Europe for the holidays and we will be in Rome from January 4-6. This will be our first time and would love any advice that you might have in terms of lodging (areas to stay in), any special events around this time, closures, things that must be seen, or just anything you are willing to share. also, that would be cool if we can meet up.

Hi Erin,

I agree with Julie, it is early in the season and snow will be an issue so you will have to take that into account. I worked at a German ski lodge and it really did not snow until end of January. Since you are in Rome, maybe do a little research into Torino, as you know they just hosted the Olympics and they do have a glacier so that might be an easy fix in terms of time and from what I hear- I am also planning a ski trip- is that it is pretty reasonably priced.

I had great luck skiing on a budget in Innsbruck Austria. The HI hostel in town was under 15 Euro/night. Good public transit, and as a two-time Winter Olympics host, Innsbruck delivers at the mountain. Dunno how much it would cost you to take a train that far, but you should definitely consider Innsbruck.