I'm sure you've seen ShinJin's Hist Mage build, correct? While I'm definitely not... shall I say, suited to that build, I did think it would be super interesting to play, and is a smart way to play the game. Alchemy may teach you to be aware of your surroundings, but that build will teach you to use it as well.
Though I'd thought about it, and I think that going with a Dunmer that uses Stahlrim and Frost destruction magic would be pretty cool as well. (Pun slightly intended.)
Plus, there are thousands of ways to play. Say, as a paladin. You go out, help who you can, destroy any evil (This includes the Destroy the Dark Brotherhood questline) you see. Or you can go evil, and just slaughter 85% of the NPCs you meet. One of the members (forgive me, I've forgotten their name) made a merchant build. Pretty interesting and downright dirty way to play.
Too long? Yes. Necessary? Absolutely.