What's the difference between FYS/CAP and a normal course?

<p>I have been really bothered by the seminar lottery. Can anybody tell me the differences between a seminar and a course, (besides that i know first-year seminars are only open to the new students ;p)?
Do seminars have grades just like courses?
Are there any benefits in taking the seminars?</p>

<p>Well, you pretty much stated the difference between an FYS and normal course. It’s also limited to 20 people (most of them at least). A CAP course makes it so that your professor is also your advisor. This is good if you want a professor from a specific department and you want your professor to also be your advisor. Tose are the differences</p>

<p>They may or may not have grades. Some are S/NC some are not.</p>

<p>Benefits to FYS: Get to know the other students around you. Much more comfortable environment. Very interesting classes.</p>

<p>Benefits to CAP: Probably have a closer relationship with your advisor. You have the opportunity to DECIDE who your advisor will be</p>

<p>Thanks a lot… It seems that I should take this good opportunity to have an experience of first-year seminar ^^</p>

<p>well…i’d be careful. Though you may get to know your classmates, my FYS personally was atrocious and very boring. I’d shop around (literally, I’m sure you’ve heard of shopping period by now) and find a class you reallllly like for the FYS. Else, in my case at least, I would have benefitted more from taking a different class. Feel it out :D</p>