you need 35k PQM for a LH M&M Silver (still valid for two years after qualification) but pretty much useless if you are US based now ...
register with your German address and start flying UA and earning on UA MP.
You can easily hit UA MP Gold by flying a little domestic and fly home twice a year - just avoid to travel home on Lufthansa's cheap fare K ... get a credit score and get a UA branded credit card - all you need
UA MP mileage redemption is 100 times better than miles & less which charges you more fees than an actual ticket would cost