Personal logo problem

Hey Graham & everyone,

I am an aspiring designer currently working on my BS in Web/Graphic Design & Development.  At this time I am trying to slowly build a brand identity that can progress with me as I progress from student/aspiring designer to professional. 

Originally, I was going to use a personal handle that I have gone by for years online, but as this particular handle  did not receive very positive feedback and was confusing to many, I decided to begin by using my first name “corie” and middle name “michele” as I believe it has a better ring to it than my first and last name.

When I initially began sketching concepts that might be possible with my initials and name, it very early became clear that I was having trouble finding a way to align the two names.  At first, I wanted “corie” to sit above “michele”, but that didn’t seem to look right because of the mulitple e’s at the end.  Below I have posted what I envisioned for my first name, I didn’t include a version with my middle name because honestly I couldn’t even come up with one that I felt was even suitable to submit.

As a beginner, I know I have a tremendous amount to learn, but I was hoping that maybe some outside perspective would possibly see a solution that at the moment feels lost to me lol.  And if there are any suggestion on improving what I already have they are always welcome as well.

Thank you so much to Graham and everyone!

Corie