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Okay. Not here to argue with anyone, but the pointers below should be addressed in order to have at least a functional PS/SOP for your econ PhD application in my humble opinion. If you disagree, it's all good. Hopefully people will find it useful. Point 1: State clearly that you are interested in pursuing a PhD in Econ and what you envision yourself doing with your Econ PhD (becoming a researcher should be the main goal). Point 2: Elaborate why you are prepared from an academic point view in terms of classes. No need to list all of your classes, but stress that you have the proper math training. Point 3: Talk about any research experience. Here, please do not go into too much detail on exactly what you did, but instead focus on the fact that you know what research is like, but also know that you still have a long way to go until you can conduct independent research. And a PhD will help you become a better researcher. Point 4: Any other preparations you have done to prepare yourself and your field interest. Explain why. Point 5: Why the school you are applying to is a good fit and if applicable, what you bring to the table. Why are you different from any other applicant. Conclude with the fact you would like to become a qualified researcher.

How valuable is a LOR from a professor who is in their first year at a University after finishing their PhD and possibly work experience at a Fed/University as a researcher? Is it advised to avoid getting a LOR from such a person? Thanks!