Country care

There was a familiar face singing and playing guitar at the annual Laker Lawn Party in September.

Isaac Buschur, a musician and 2021 Wright State University alumnus who works as an ER nurse at Dayton Children’s, entertained students, faculty and staff during the event, which celebrates the start of the fall semester. The party was held on the rear patio overlooking Grand Lake St. Marys and included fun activities like fishing, cornhole, miniature golf and live music.

“It’s nostalgic being back here,” said Buschur, who belted out cover songs from Jim Croce, David Lee Murphy and the Violent Femmes while strumming his acoustic guitar a few steps outside the Boathouse. “I miss being here.”

Lynn Franck, director of the nursing program at Lake Campus, said she learned that Buschur had an interest in music during a clinical study at St. Rita’s Medical Center in Lima. Buschur brought his guitar to help children on the mental health floor.

“The instructor that was there gave him rave reviews and the kids loved it,” said Franck.

“I pulled my guitar out and played some songs and it lit up the people there. I think there’s a place for music in health care,” said Buschur.

About a year ago, Buschur started playing solo in area bars and breweries after winning a singing contest at JD Legends in Franklin. His prize was performing at the Country Concert in Fort Loramie.

“I think his niche has a country rock type of feel to it,” said Franck. “From what I’ve heard today he can sing about anything.”

After performing at the Country Concert, he traveled to Nashville last summer to work with a music producer who has collaborated with musicians like Jelly Roll and Luke Combs. Buschur recorded several songs including “Hey, hey honey,” which he released in October and has already been played almost 13,000 times on Spotify.

Buschur credits the experience at Country Concert and Wright State for helping with his music career.

“Wright State equipped me with my people skills and helped to form my personality,” he said.

His multiple jobs keep Buschur extremely busy. He works three 12-hour shifts in the ER at Dayton Children’s and performs music two or three nights a week.

“Nursing is my career, but music is my passion,” he said.

Franck said Bushur is a great example of the talented students at the Lake Campus and serves as an inspiration to never give up on your ambitions even if you have more than one.

“You can be a nurse and follow your music career,” said Frank. “Never limit yourself and always follow your aspirations.”