I interviewed for a Financial Coordinator role in September, and my experience with the director of finance for oncology clinical trials, was disappointing. She was not pleasant, and I would not want to work under her. Before I even had a chance to speak, she immediately listed her “concerns” about my background not being in finance — despite the role being entry level, my finance degree, and my past finance positions. Everyone’s career path is different, and some may be transitioning back into finance. I also have healthcare experience, which aligns with the role. It was surprising to hear this criticism from someone who doesn’t even hold a finance degree herself. Instead of leading with negativity, it would be far more productive to believe in people and actually listen. Maybe others at NYU are great, but I did not have a positive experience with this director.