Māori and Pacific researchers are working hard to transform our research system to enable Māori and Pacific postgraduate students to thrive in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Yet barriers remain, and each new postgraduate generation inherits evolving challenges and opportunities to navigate. This paper is written for Māori and Pacific people who are about to enter the postgraduate STEM space, recognising that we need our own words to help future students to navigate this journey. It will be challenging at times, but our kōrero shared here highlights that when you find the right people, be authentic to yourself and set boundaries, the journey becomes easier to navigate. This paper operates as a survival guide for Māori and Pacific STEM postgraduates as we continue to hold the doors open to spaces that desperately need you. We look forward to smiling at you from across the room in department meetings.