Purpose <p>Surgical residency programs are challenged to meet the evolving expectations of incoming residents who seek not only technical skills but also support systems that foster professional growth and personal well-being. To determine perspectives of current applicants we analyzed secondary application responses for our General Surgery residency to the question “How can surgery training be improved?”</p> Methods <p>A qualitative analysis of two hundred and eighty secondary application responses was conducted to capture applicants’ ideas for improvement in surgical training. This was accomplished through both manual and natural language processing (NLP)-based thematic coding.</p> Results <p>Applicants highlighted simulation-based training, including the integration of AI and augmented reality, as essential for skills development outside the OR. Strong mentorship, where seasoned surgeons guide early-career residents, was cited as a critical factor for a successful residency. Additionally, applicants expressed a need for regular, constructive feedback to drive consistent improvement. Increased opportunities for hands-on experience and autonomy in the OR were viewed as central to technical competence. Emphasis was also placed on interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure comprehensive patient care, and a focus on wellness and work-life balance was recognized as essential for sustaining both personal health and professional excellence.</p> Conclusion <p>Insights from this review suggest that today’s surgical residency applicants seek a balanced training experience that combines advanced simulation, mentorship, and mental health support with core surgical training. By addressing these priorities, programs can cultivate an environment that aligns with applicants’ expectations and prepares them to thrive both in and beyond the OR.</p>