Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking pan.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.

In a separate bowl, beat together the softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy.

Once cooled, crumble the cake into fine crumbs in a large bowl. Add the frosting and mix until the mixture forms a dough-like consistency.

Use a cookie scoop to portion the mixture and roll into small balls. Place them onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Dip each lollipop stick into melted candy and insert into each cake ball. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Melt the candy melts in a microwave-safe bowl. Dip each chilled cake pop into the melted candy, allowing excess to drip off.

While the coating is still wet, decorate with sprinkles or use edible markers to draw graduation-themed designs.

Arrange the decorated cake pops on a stand or tray for serving. They make a perfect addition to any graduation party.

Store leftover cake pops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or refrigerate for longer freshness.