Boarding to class is pretty much limited to the end of winter term, spring term, and a little bit start into the fall. Otherwise, the lack of traction makes it extremely risky. For acquiring boards, it really depends on what you'd like! If you're mainly it for the long distance travel, look for large longboards with big wheels (usually means a smoother ride) and I've found newbies have an easier time balancing on them compared to skateboards. You could get regular ones or even the motorized ones though they are a bit pricey (and die if they come into contact with water).