Are you a U.S. resident now, or what are your other ties to the U.S., if any?
How did you decide to pursue something you are unfamiliar with?
Are you currently finishing your Abitur - when will you graduate, or what is your current academic status? Expect to submit officiated translations of your Zeugnisse for the 4 final years of Gymnasium, as well as your Abitur.
Are you interested in undergraduate studies (BA/BS), or graduate school (MA/MS, doctoral)?