Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and butter until smooth and fluffy.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well with each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with milk. Mix until just blended.

If you want colorful layers, divide the batter into separate bowls and add food coloring to create different shades.

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.

Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely.

Once cooled, frost the cakes as desired and decorate with graduation-themed items for that final touch.