DeKALB | People tell Helen Umbdenstock she resembles Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis.

To this, Umbdenstock’s sense of humor peeks out: “I just tell them that sometimes I feel I was dropped into the wrong womb.”

Umbdenstock is the owner of Helen’s Hair Designs, 147 N. Second St. An appreciation for aesthetic pleasure and performing led the DeKalb resident to a life of acting, a 20-year modeling career as well as ownership of her salon in downtown DeKalb. Between appointments, Umbdenstock nibbled on her lunch of fruit and told the Northern Star how the life she started at NIU impacted her life after college.

NORTHERN STAR: So why hair? What fueled you to make this your life’s work?

HELEN UMBDENSTOCK: I’ve been in this business for a long time. I graduated from NIU’s theater program. Theater has always been very important to me. I’ve been able to keep up with the styles and trends. I’m very picky about how people leave here. I’ve been able to help other people look their best. I’ve picked up tips on beauty from being outside, from seeing other places and from being in other environments.

NS: You graduated from NIU, but what made you want to build your life here?

HU: The reason I’ve stayed here so long is because I believe the street I’m on is the nicest in DeKalb. DeKalb needs some work, but students don’t realize that businesses are here for them. The businesses want their energy. NIU has brought so much culture and people to this town. I want to encourage businesses participating with the students. We’re like that; we’re more of a Chicago-based salon.

NS: What would you like to say to students?

HU: I want to be able to talk to students and give them guidance. Knowing “I’m worth something” is important for people. I’m never too busy to speak with people on a human level. That human-ness is important and something people sometimes forget.

NS: Let’s switch gears. How has your theater background from NIU influenced your life?

HU: I’ve known from a very young age that it was one of my callings. I had a good speaking voice and it made people notice me, even from a young age.

NS: Do you still keep up with the theater now?

HU: Yes, I’m relisting with my agent and am looking to do smaller roles in film, as well as voice-overs.

NS: What’s something readers may not know about you?

HU: I’m a lot of fun. I have a sense of humor. It’s not the quantity in which you have, but the quality of the company and the quality of life that you keep that matters.