Optimistic; expectant (7)
I believe the answer is:
hopeful
I believe this is a double definition.
'optimistic' is the first definition.
(associated in meaning)
'expectant' is the second definition.
(similar in meaning)
(Other definitions for hopeful that I've seen before include "Optimistic, expectant" , "Prospect" , "Wannabe" , "Promising success" , "One wishing to succeed" .)