The lighting is challenging and as a result the picture looks soft. I also don't like the lady behind - she is distracting. The lady is looking beyond the camera but there is no idea why.
But mostly I am not sure what you are trying to achieve - if it is a portrait she would be better in portrait mode with her taking up more of the frame. If it is capturing some moment, it is not apparent what it is and for me the picture should have an obvious story or message.
I think if she were looking straight into the lens it could make a statement! She looks preoccupied by something else. What is the image for? Also, you should bring up some of the shadows by dodging and burning in levels. It's just too dark.
If it's to be an editorial image for the paper, try and include more 'context' in the photo. Indications as to who the person is and what's going on around them. You want that sort of photo to tell a story.
Your camera settings seem fine, if it's to be a portrait then you need to work on eliminating background elements like Scott says. The woman in the background and the exit sign are distracting.
