Comments from the department: yes, but only once

When writing a plan, it is always a good idea to talk to professors at the School of Design. They are there to help you, and have experience that helps you through many difficulties you can't even think about.

However, keep in mind that they are also evaluating your application. Therefore, there is a potential conflict of interest.

To manage this conflict iof interest, I have used the following policy. I can discuss with the applicant once before writing the plan begins. Also, I can read and comment the plan, but only once, for two reasons. Since I am a part of the evaluation process, getting more involved to the process would implicate me to the process: I cannot evaluate papers that reflect my thoughts. Also, it is not my job to write applications to a doctoral program, this job belongs to you. It is you who have to clarify thinking, not me.

SoD is fairly small, and professors talk to each other, so do not try to shop around for comments from many professors. If may ruin your chances.