Alvarez Hall

Compared to all the halls it’s the best one but that doesn’t necessarily mean good. Water was cold here and there, elevator often did not work, not every unit has an ac switch, bathrooms are old and have stains prior to move in, and be prepared to be charged after move out with BS reasons. If they decide to renovate your unit they’ll make something up and charge you just to save money on their end. Happed back to back semesters, watch out.

Alvarez Hall is an absolute disaster. The AC doesn’t work, and it’s unbearable in here. The shower has had cold water since I moved in, which is completely unacceptable. The first floor is covered in oil stains, making the place look like it hasn’t been cleaned in ages. The room is so narrow that I can barely fit through the door, and I’m a fit guy. It’s ridiculously cramped and uncomfortable. The people here are unbelievably intrusive—there are constant knocks on my door for no reason at all. It’s completely unnecessary and irritating. And as for parking, it’s a joke. I paid $200 for a permit, yet I can never find a spot. I’ve already received FOUR tickets in their lot, and I’m absolutely done. I’m not paying a single dime for these fines, and if anyone tries to make me, I will not back down. This place is an absolute nightmare. Do yourself a favor and stay as far away from Alvarez Hall as possible. It’s a complete waste of money and energy.

Alvarez Hall is the “nicest” dorm of UTSA, but I find it quite interesting how there are no disabilities buttons or accessibility options to open the doors inside the building, yet they have plenty for the front and back door. And jesus christ do not get me started on the parking. There is no damn reason why there should be 200 something employee B spots at dorms. Like you cant be serious. I pay over $4k to live here and i have to park across the campus?! Just live off campus or somewhere else. This place is not worth it.

There’s nothing bad about the building itself as long as you manage your space wisely, but there’s a system in place in case you get locked out of your room as I did. You call the RA on call and give them your UTSA information and then they’ll come to you and open the door for you. I had to wait a solid 45 minutes before someone let me in. And no my roommate was not here. As a neuroscience major time is my most precious resource. If it weren’t for this system I’d give them 4 stars.

I lived here my first year and loved it for the most part. The rooms are big compared to other dorms/other universities. Had decent amenities and close proximity to pretty much everything on campus. Had issues with cell reception but there are a lot of areas on campus with that problem.